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"Christian Citizenship Seminar"

Session #I: What is the Biblical ate for Christian Citizenship?

Session #2: Is here Such a Thing as a Christian Natio

Break

Session #3: What Does Separation of Church & State Really Mean?

Session # t Practical T

Informal O&A Christian Citizenship Semilzar Session #I: What is the Biblical Mandate for Chris tian Citizenship?

Introduction

9 Purpose of the Church Do We Really Have a Dual Citizenshrp Responsibility? Classic Dual Responsibility Extremes Within the Church But Where do we Invest om Time and Resources? Who's the Real Enemy? So.. .What is our Biblical .Role?

Salt and Light Basic Presuppositions Relating to Christian Citizenship Christian World View Major Millennia1 Views Homework:

9 How Will Your "End Times" (MiUermial) Views Affect Your Politics? 9 Wow Consistent is Your World View? What Feeds your World View? The Purpose of the Church

The Church Gathered: - Worship God in spirit and trutlt (John 4:24; Col3:16)

- Pray for God's will to be revealed and fulfilled in His church and in the world (Mntt 9:lO; 1 Tim 21-4; Jer 29: 7)

equipping-of God7;people for service to God (I Cor l2:4- 7) The Church Scattered:

- Proclaim the gospel of God's saving grnce (Matt 28: 28-20)

- Live exemplary lives in obedience to God to bring Him glop in all walks of life (I Cor 10:32; Col3:17) - Apply Biblical principles and a Christian worldview to all spheres of the culture around us, and to all of life as citizens of this nation (Matt 5-13-16; Prov 14:34; Deut 4:6-81

Notes: Do We Really Have a Dual

"Love the Lord your God wit11 all ''But our citizenship is in Heavenly your heart and heaven. And we eogerly Perspective Vertical all yollr solll await a Savior from there, view alld all your the Lord Jesus Christ" (We're mind" (Phil 3:20) Adopted) (Matt 22.3 7) "You are the salt of the earth. "Love your But iftlre salt loses its saltiness, Earfhly how cart it be made salty again? neighbor as Perspective yorrrself' ~t is no longergoodfor View (Man2219) anytlting ... Youorethelightof (We're the world A city on a kill cannot Ambassadors) be Irirlrlen" (Matt 5:13ffl

I Believe We Do! The Question is - What is the Proper Balance?

Notes: Classic Dual Responsibility Extremes Within the Church

"Love Ilie Lord

Aeart and with

'[Laveyour neighbor Horizontal as yourself' Dangers

Notes: But Where do we Invest our Time and Resources?

Nation &Beyond

Notes: Who's the Real Enemy?

Pngnn Wovllvimvs Evangelical Christianity

Mutual Tolerance/Common Enemy Divided over Do&ine/Principle

Notes: o Attributes of the Non-Christian world

o Attributes of "Christendom" Notes: So.. .What is our Biblical Role? As Citizens ofHeaven, we are: @ To "Lovethe Lord your God with all your heart ...soul and...mind" (Matt 22:37) B To be "...living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God ...y our spiritual act ofworship" (Rom 12:l) 0 To be "...Christ's ambassadors" (2 Cor 520) 8 To "Be holy, because I am holy" and be a "holy nation" (1 Peter 1: 16; 2:9) @ T o "reach unity in the faith.. .the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Chist'' (Eph 4:13) As Citizens of a Ndion, we are: 0 To 'Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them" (Eph 5:ll) To seek the "peace and prosperity of the city" we are in (Jer29:7) To provide wise counsei to the nation in selecting leaders, laws and affecting society for good (Prov 11:14) @ To encourage government to fulfill it's God ordained role (Rom 13: 1-4) To submit "...to the governing authorities" and pray ". ..for those in auihorily" (Rom 13:l; 1 Tim 2:l-2) a To "Love your neighbor as yourself' (Matt 22:39) a To work diligently to restore rigl~teousnessto the land (Prov 14:34) 8 Tobe "...the salt oftheearth ...the light of the world" (Matt 5:13-14)

Notes: Salt and Light

"You are the salt of the earth. But iftlre salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made sulty again? It is )lo longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men" (Matt 5:13; also Mk 9:50 & Luke 14:34,35)

"You are the light of the world A city on the hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp andpzit it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, letjwur light shine before nren, that they may see yozir good deeds andpraise your Father in heaven" (Malt 5:16-16) 1. What does it mean to be Light - Disperse Darkness; Illuminates Everything; Provides Warmth; Symbolic of:

Jesus Christ HirnseK(Rev 21:ll) and as illuminator ofmen (John 1:4,5,9; 3119) God's truth (Psalm 119: 105; Isa 5 1:4; Prov 6:23) and dwelling place (1 Tim 6: 16) Guidance of God (Job 29:3; Psalm 112:4; Isa 58: 10) and men (Rom 2: 19) Salvation (1 Peter 2:19) and God's favor (Psalm 45) Righteousness (Rom 13:12; 2 Cor 11:14-15; I John 2:9,10) Prosperity and well being (Esther 8: 16; Job 18:18; Isa 58:8-10) Believers (Luke 16:8) The truth ofthe gospel (2 Cor 4:4) and the knowledge of the glory of God (2 Cor 4:6) What good is it if it is hidden?

2. What does it mean to be Salt - Preserves; Seasons; Symbolizes Purity; Fertilize Soil; Antiseptic; Useless if not used; makes one Thirsty; Symbolic of:

Covenant between God and His people (Num l8:l9; Chron 135; Lev 2: 13; Ezra 6:9) Brotherly peace amongst believers (Mark 950) Spiritual health, vigor, and character (Matt 5~13;Mark 950) Wisdom displayed in a believer's speech (Col4:6) Healing (2 Kings 2:20) God's judgment (Gen 20:26) Faith without works is dead (James 2:17)

3. Both Salt & Light speak to Christians influence in society in every sphere of work and involvement

Preserve the land and maintain peace (Jer 29: 17) Demand justice, godly leaders, punishment of evil doers (Rom 13 :1 -7) * Engage society in the issues conftonting us (Biblical truths, facts, consequences, standards.. .) Most people try to do what is "right" - God's standard of righteousness must be held high

4. Are we like men of Issachar who "Understood the times and knew what Israel shouId do?" (1 Chron 12:32) Basic Presuppositions Relating to Christian Citizenship

1. The Bible is the ultimate source of truth in all matters of faith and practice (Prov 30:5a; Heb 4:12-13; 2 Tim 3: 16-17)

2. Fundamental, eternal change in a person's nature can only come through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the action of the Holy Spirit (Rom 12:2,1 Cor 6:9-11; C013:5-11, Eph 2:s-9)

3. Changes in a person's thinking and behavior (whether they are Christians or not) can come about thru a variety of means (there are limits, however)

4. Most non-believers (and the nominally Christian) will try to be morally "good" according to their own standard (Rom 2:12-16), and influenced by "3" above

5. God has revealed His moral standards and expectations for both believers and for humanity at large o Before the fall (Gen 1:16,27,28; 2: l5,23,24)

b. After the fall fDeut 45-8; Psalm 96:l-13; 98:2,3; Rom 1:20; 2:14,15)

c. Turning from God's standard results in adverse consequences (Joshua 1: 7 principle)

b. Objective data, information, and observation) will generally show the consequences of sin Deut 28:l-68) 6. Wisdom dictates Christians are called to be watchmen for the people of this nation (Ezek3:16-21; 33:7-9; Heb 13:17; Eph 511, Rom 7:7; 1 Tim 1:s-11; Gal 3:24, Matt 5:13-14; 22:39; Jer 29:7)

7. Christians, in general, appear to have withdrawn from the public arena and become less visible in number and in influence

8. Many Christians shy away from exposing gross sin in the public arena because of a fear of man and the consequences that will result (greater fear of man than God)

9. Many Christians believe they don't have a right to tell another person what is good or evil (right or wrong) if it does not affect them personally

10. In general, if a moral standard is removed, the resulting void will be filled with one of one's own making (Judges 21:25). The result will certainly become hostile to Christianity in any form

11. This nation asks its citizens who should rule over them and what is right (good) or wrong (evil). If Christians do not provide the answer, who will? Christian World View

"For thozlgh we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every titought to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Cor 10:3-5)

1. Definitions:

A Chri~tianWorldview is the correct I ' '1' I / view of, or outlook on, the b > r .. , its .\' , and people in the light of God's Dictionary definition: "A comprehensive, especially personal, philosophy or conception of the world and of human life" David Noebel "Understanding the Times ": o "Any set of ideas that speaks to the following disciplines: Theology; Philosophy; Ethics; Biology; Psychology; Sociology; Law; Politics; Economics; History". o "Any ideology, pldosophy, theology, movement, or religion that provides an overarching approach to understanding God, the world, and man's relations to God and the world" o Predominant world views: 8

2. Why is it Important to Understand World Views?

They are the basis upon which we perceive, interpret and act upon everything around us Everyone has them - whether they are consistent in acting upon them or not Our worldview wdl: o Mect our understanding of our purpose in this life o Affect our approach to issues in our lives and in society o Drive us to withdraw fiom, or engage the enemy at any level Remember 1 Peter 1: 13; "Therefore, prepare your minds for action..." Why does public school want ta remove all reference ta the Christian God?

3. Two Battle Grounds - Spiritual and Physical (2 Cor 10:3-5)

We live in the world but we are not part ofit (2 Cor 6:14; 1 Cor 10223; 6:12) How does the world wage war? (John 8:44; 1 Cor 1:20-25; Co12:8; 1 Peter 523) Man's reasoning produces hollow and deceptive philosophies and tradition (Col2:8) We are to demolish every argument and pretension, this implies use of our intellect (reason) and will Howdowewagewar?(2Cor2:11;Col2:20-23;Rom12:17-21;Eph6:13-19) What other weapons do we have? (1 Tim 1~18-19;1 John 5:3-5; 2 Tim 2:3; Heb 10:32; James 417; 2 Tim 2:23-26; Co14:4-5; 1 Peter 3:15; Matt 7:6; 1 Jolm 412-3; 1 Cor 1~20-25; Luke 12:ll-12; 21:15; James 1:2-8; Rom 12:17-21; Matt 1618; James 4:7; Rom 8:31; Col2: 15) We are to be prepared to give a reason for the truth within us (Acts 17:19-34; 1 Peter 3115;Col4:4-5) As loving neighbors we are to point out the consequences of sin (Eze 3:16-21; Deut 28: 1- 68; Rom 2: 14-15; Eph 5:ll) We are to take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ o We are to love our Lord with all of our heart, mind and soul (Matt 22:37) o We are to be kingdom oriented, not worldly oriented (Matt 6:33) o We are to set our minds on things above (Col3:2) o We are ta I%ow thoughts upon Christ (Heb 3: 1) o We are to prepare our minds for action (1 Peter 1: 13) o We are not to use tactics of the world but to speak truth in love to others (Eph 4: 15)

4. Bottom Lines for the World's World Views:

Contained under the general term secularism: doctrines and practices that disregard or reject any form of religious faith and worship and originate with man 8 There are no eternal absolute truths, nothing outside of this existence, no transcendent being or purpose to life, nothing of eternal value Ultimately there is no hope since this life is all that there is If true - all we can do is minimize our suffering for as long as we can, but our lives will be futile and without purpose (Eccl); life ends in despair

5. Bottom Lines for the Christian World View:

There is a transcendent God that gives ultimate purpose to life and the created order Christians are God centered (Theo-centric) not msul centered The Bible addresses every sphere of life; providing the standard of right & wrong, and the principles to guide our lives God's truths are sufficient for all matters of faith and practice The principles are absolute - they do not change over time or circumstances Our view of the world and human Me must be through the grid of Biblical truths The Bible gives a unified view (our understanding may be flawed however) When applied in a reasonably consistent fashion, they will produce positive results Everything that we do has eternal implications On macro scale, Biblical truths distinguish western from eastern nations We are called to be faithful to our tasks and leave the results to God (1 Cor 35-91 Major Millennial Views

Is there a Literal Millennium?

No Yes (Symbolic Only) 1 A-Mil+----+ Post-Mil Pre-Mil

-Is There a T .bulation Period? t_ No Yes

Mil: Millennium When is the+ Rapture? Tl'ib: Tribulation .t + Pre+Trib+ Mid-Trib Post-Trib Dispensational

I

Notes: Horn ework: How Will Your "End Times " (Millennial) Views Affect Your Po litics! (Revelation 20) Notes: 1. Many variations exist within each view - those presented here are representative and not absolute 2. Common themes of all four include: all will experience physical death (except those raptured): Christ will retzlrn bodily andpersonally to earth; the dead will be resurrected and consigned to their ultimare destinies (heaven or hell) 3. This chm-t is nor intended to justify any particular view, but to highlight general dzflerences 4. Our understanding of our role as Christians can be signijkantly afiected by our view of the "end times"

View At Christ's Return Millennium Period Held By Tendencies

Historic Preceded by many signs Literal 1000 years Church in i%st 3 Pre-Millennia1 Prior Tribulation period Time of peace Justine Martyr Church persecuted Ruled by Christ directly Tertullian; Irenaeus Gospel to all nations Satan in chains Anabaptists Great apostasy in church Many Jews converted Plymotlth Bretheran Christ return personally Nature tamed Conservative Baptists & destroys earthly Resurrection of saints Fredric Godet kingdoms Ends with Satan loosed RA. Torrey; Rapture at Christ return Ends with final judgment Eldon Ladd; W. Erdman Millennia1 period begins

Dispensational End of the church age Following tribulation Donald Barnhouse Pre-Millennia] Church apostate Christ returns Gleason Archer Christ returns in the air Est. 1000 year kingdom Norman Geisler Church raptured fiom OT promises to Israel H. Ironside; Hal Lindsey the world fidfilled Charles Ryrie; J.N. Darby 7 year tribulation begins Satan bound, temple built J. Dwight Pentecost Sacrificial system restored John F. Walvoord Ends with Satan loosed Ends with final judgment

Post-Millennia1 God's kingdom gradual Symbolic not literal Tyconius (late 300's) expansion Since Christ first advent Augustine (earlier) World will become Christ reigns in hearts Westminster Conf. Christianized of believers Early Luth.; Presby. Long period of peace May be very long time Most Puritans and prosperity No personal earthy reign Johnathan Edwards Non-believers minority John Calvin; John Owen Short rebellion prior Eusebius; Iain Murray to Christ return B.B. Warfield At return dead raised Greg Bahnsen; Gary North then judgment R.J. Rushdoony

A-Millennia1 No period of universal Symbolic not literal Augustine (later) peace & prosperity Since Christ first advent John Calvin (?) Growth of good & evil Christ reigns in hearts Louis Berkhof May return any time of believers & church William Hendricksen Satan bound until return by His word/Spirit Anthony Hoekema At return dead raised, No personal earthly reign Abraham Kuyper then judgment Edward Young Then new heavens & Bruce Waltke earth created Ho~nework:How Consistent is Your World View ? ParadigdComparison of Conservative and Liberal Theology*

I~zstructions: 1. Make a copy for each person in the family 2. Each individual read each concept or entity in the middle column 3. For that concept or entity, circle the right or left: column entry that best fits your philosophical outlook 4. Tabulate the total responses for each right and left column 5. Compare with each other and discuss differences 6. Don't be surprised if there were different interpretations of the center column 7. Generally, the more lined up in a single column, the more consistent the person's world view and its application

Liberal Direcfiort/Tertdenct)of Belief'

NatureReason ...... Ultimate Source of Knowledge ...... Bible Fallible...... Be...... Infallible More Symbolic...... BibInterpretation ...... More Literal Relative/Situational...... Moral Standards...... Absolutes Man ...... Relative Emphasis...... God RemoteIImpersonal...... Conception of God...... ,...... Sovereign/Personal Evolution...... Creation of Man ...... God's Direct Act Good ...... HaNature...... Evil Social...... Moral Emphasis ...... Personal Rights...... Relative Importance to Man ...... Responsibilities Unjust Social Systems...... Origin of Evil ...... Fall of Man Good Works ...... Basis of Salvation...... Grace/Faith Earth ...... Relative Focus ...... Heaven Man ...... Locus of Government Power ...... God To Man ...... Accotabiof Government...... To God More Unlimited...... Role of Government...... More Limited Equality...... Relative Importance...... Liberty Make Society Just ...... Primary Citizen Duty...... ,...... Seek Salvation of Souls Governmental Reform ...... Justice Achieved By ...... Spiritual Regeneration National ...... refGovernment ...... , ...... StateILocal Internationalist ...... Direction of Sentiment...... Nationalist Primary Method of Direct...... Governmental Influence...... lndirect More Socialist...... Econonc Tendency...... More Capitalist Faster, Within or Outside...... Preferred RatdType of Change...... Slower, Within Existing Existing Institutions Institutions

*Developed from content analysis of major theological and political documents from the late 1700's to the early 1980's. From Charles W. Dunn, "American Political Theory" Homework: What Feeds your World View?

List the ways you are instructed in Biblical truths (and approximate hours n week)

List the most common sources of information you use to be informed about current national and local issues (mark Christian sources)

Mass Media

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Christian Citizenship Semina r

Session #2: Is There Such a Thing as a Christian Nation?

Are We a Christian Nation?

Influences of Biblical Commandments On Laws of The Land Examples of Early Documents (Pre-Foundation of the United States) Examples of Early State Governments Statements (Requirements for holding office) Declaration of Independence Basic Principles in the Declaration of Independence Religious A£6liations of the Delegates to the Constitutional Convention Influences of Biblical Truths on the Constitution (Examples) Supreme Court Justice Statements - A£Erming our Christian Roots President's Statements and Actions AfErmkg our Christian Roots What Happened?

Supreme Court Justice's Statements (Beginning of the End)

Summary of Our Nation's Christian History

Homework

Glean Judicial Principles From the Book of Proverbs Are We a Christian Nation ?

"firnine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you - unless, of course, you fail the lest?" (2 Cor 13:5)

1. Welding of Church and State Together has been tried Throughout History

Virtually all nations (pre-Christian) were sacral in nature o "By sacral society, we mean society held together by a rd 4:~r-'to which all

-\q of that society are .; .f* IT 1 o Monolithic; one religious option; all born or ritualistically initiated belonged; church and state instrument of each other o Examples? Post Apostolic Era (90-325 AD); in many cultures but not directly connected to nations Constanthian Era (325 AD to present); created first Christian (sacralist) nation Roman Catholic Era (500- 15 17 AD); papal authority and allegiance dominated nations Refonnation Era (1 5 17-1564 AD); many nations embraced Protestant sacralism (1200 yrs of experience) Anabaptist Era (1 523-1600 AD); church of believers only; church & state to be separate Puritan Era (1630-1660 AD); tried to establish a new Israel in New England American Colonial Era; each colony had a form of Christian church-state combination America (I 776-present); dominant Christian influence in formation of the nation o Bill of Rights assured no national Christian denomination (fieedom of consciefice) o Rejected a national sacral legacy (unique in history) o Recent history: secularist and humanist religions have replaced the earlier Christian national influence o New left: tendency to address social injustice at the expense of the gospel o New right: tendency to try and retrieve early American ideals supporting Christian culture and America as the new Israel (2 Chron 7: 14)

2. Why is it Important to know if this Country was Founded upon Christian Principles?

0

3. Examine the Data - was Christ the Focus During the Early Formation of this Nation?

Early historical development (strong Puritan &hence) o Presuppositions about human nature (distrust of democracy) o Priesthood of all believers (importance of education) o Covenant theology (covenant of civiL'judicia1 law and grace) o Limited government with delegated authority (God ordained role of government) o Local government (representative form) The affect of Biblical law and principles on the nation (see notes) o The influence of the 10 Commandments o Foundational colonial documents o Early State requirements for public office o The Declaration of Independence Delegates to the Constitutional Convention were dominantly Christians not Deists (notes) The Constitution reflects a Christian influence (notes) Biblical principles under girded the judicial system & laws (see Session #I Proverbs notes) The Supreme Court awedour Christian heritage (notes) Om Presidents have publicly afEmed our Christian heritage (notes) If a community is dominantly Christian, is it unreasonable to expect the government to be directly influenced?

4. 'Why Would Someone Think the United States is a Christian Country?

Polling data has consistently indicated a large percentage of Americans believe they are Christians There are over a third of a million churches in the United States (more per capita than any other nation) Over 100 million people attend church on any given Sunday Money spent, and attendance for, church exceeds that of all sports combined Dramatic increase in Christian schools (and home schoolers). If there was a Christian country in the world - which one would it be? However: Only 17% read the Bible regularly (213's do not recognize what "John 3~16"refers to) 83% believe man is basically good 113 of all pregnancies end in abortion Over 113 of all births are to women without husbands; USA leads world in divorce; teen pregnancy; drug use; and is the pornography capital of the world One in five suffer from some sort of venereal disease Bottom line: 2 Tim 4:3; 35. Is much of "Christianity" in America a "tailored", selective religion?

5. So, Is this a Christian Nation? (My personal opinions!)

Biblically, there is no warrant or mandate for a Christian nation, only for a Christian people (1 Peter 2:9) Our nation was founded upon solid Biblical truths and principles (most often cited source by founding fathers) to glorlfy God The fi-arners of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were by far and away strong Christians This country is part of what would be considered "Christendomyyonly Christian principles guided this country legally and socially for most of its history Legacy of Biblical principles has provided a rich environment for free exercise of our faith Current trends are moving this country from a Christian era to a Post-Christian era to the beginning of an Anti-Christian era Influence of Biblical Commandments On Laws of The Land (Ex 2O:l-17)

(Selected Examples)

1. First Commandment: "You shall have no other gods before me"

o No absolute authority or power to be granted to a ruler o Set the stage for a balance of power in government - no absolute ruler or king o No one is to have absolute sway over peoples lives except God Himself o Declaration of Independence: Laws ofNature and Nature's God - a higher law exists (accountability); consists of natural law and God's revealed law (Psalm 19: 1-6; Rom 1:20; 2: 14-1 5) o Also, the Ninth Amendment to the Constitution recognizes "common law", a higher law that prohibits the exercise of absolute, arbitrary power by the state. "In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury, shall be preserved; and no Eact tried by jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any court ofthe United States than according to the rules of common law" (Rom 2: 14,15) o Article I, Section 8, Clause 10 of the Constitution authorizes Congress: "To dehe and punish Piracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offices against the Law ofNations" o Extension of natural law, God given law o Lmplies that laws exist that supersedes legislative enactments ofnations o War tribunals established to bring foreign officials trial for atrocities (appealing to higher laws)

2. Second Commandment: "Yon shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven

above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below ...If

o No explicit legal statutes against idolatry (idol worship). However: those thiigs that are sexually defiling (which scripture condemns) have been prohibited, and do represent a form of idolatry (Col3:5): o Vice (evil or wicked actions; depraviv, corruption) o Pomography/Homosexualityim~itutidAdultery o Laws against obscenity and indecency

3. Third Commandment: "You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain"

o Laws prohibiting false testimony (perjury) - swearing upon the Bible as one takes their mth in court o State laws and State Supreme Court decisions upheld convictions of blasphemy: o Updegraph v. 'he Commonwealth, 1824 Supreme Court of Pennsylvania "Abner Updegragh ...on the 12th day of December (1821)... not having the fear of God before his eyes ... contriving and intending to scandalize, and bring into disrepute, and vilify the Christian religion and the scriptures of truth, in the presence and hearing of several persons... did unlawfully, wickedly and pre-meditatively, despitefully and blasphemously say...' That the Holy Scriptures were a mere fable: that they were a contradiction, and that although they contained a number of good thing, yet they contained a great many lies.' To the great dishonor of Almighty God, to the great scandal of the profession of the Christian religion" o The People v. Ruggles, 1 8 I 1 Supreme Court of New Y ork o Commonwealth v. Abner Kneeland, 1838 Supreme Court of Massachusetts "...willfully blaspheming the holy name of God". The law stated: "That if any person shall willhlly blaspheme the holy name of God, by denying, cursing, or contumeliously reproaching God, his creation, government, or final judging ofthe world, ..." 4. Fourth Commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy"

o God grants a legal holiday during one day of every seven - virtually recognized universally o Article I, Section 7, Paragraph (2) of the Constitution: "If any bill shall not be returned by the President within ten days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall be a Law, in like Manner as ifhe had signed it ..." o 196 1 the Supreme Court secularized the significance of Sunday by invalidating "blue laws" and maintaining society has a responsibility to provide rest hr its citizens @radical vice religious)

5. Fifth Commandment: "Honor your father and your mother"

o Virtually universal recognition of the rights and authority of parents over their children (until recently)

6. Sixth Commandment: "You shall not murder"

o Strid laws against murder, manslaughter, kid-napping o Revenge (life for life) by an individual not a justifiable action

7. Seventh Commandment: "You shall not commit aduttery"

o The sanctity ofmarriage has ken protected by laws until quite recently (not hult divorce) o Laws against alienation of affection o Strict laws against rape

8. Eighth and Tenth Commandment: ''You shall not steal"; "You shall not covet"

o Implication is that a person has a right to property and that it is not to lx abridged o Constitution; Amendment 5: "nor shall any person ... be deprived of life, liberty, w property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be. taken for public use, without just compensation" o Constitution; Amendment 14; Sixtion 1: "...nor shall any State deprive any perm of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws" o Laws against 6aud prevent one fiom taking kom another by deceit or tbeachery o All laws against theft, stealing, robbery, copyright inkingemeni, etc. are rooted in this commandment

9. Ninth Commandment: "You shall not give false testimony"

o Laws against: perjury, slander; hlse advertising; libel o Laws against yelling 'Yire" in a theater Examples of Early Documents (Pre-Foundation oJ the United States) (Prov 14:34; 16:3)

1. Charter obtained from bgJames I for a permanent settlement in Virginia in 1606 read: "To make Habitation. ..and to deduce a Colony of swdq of our People into that Part of America, commonly called Virginia...in propagating of Christian religion to such People as yet live in Darkness... [to] bring.. .a settled and quiet Government"

2, Second Charter for a permanent settlement in Virginia in 1609 read: "Because the principal Effect whch we can desire or expect of th~sAction is the Conversion ...of the people in those parts unto the true Worshp of God and the Christian Religion"

3. The Mayflower Compact was signed prior to arriving in America in 1620. It is the first plan of government formed solely in America and reads in part: "Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith.. .a Voyage to plant the W colony in the northern Parts of Virginia.. . [we] combine ourselves together into a civil EMq Politick, for...Firtheranix of the Ends aforesaid"

4. The first Charter of Massachusetts in 1629 stated: "Our said people ...maie be sm religiously, pceablie, and civilly governed, as their good life and orderlie conversation maie wynn and incite the natives of [that] country to the kowledg and obedience of the onlie true God and Savior of mankinde, and the Christian fayth, which, in our royal intention, is... the principal1 ende of this plantation"

5. The Puritans arrived around 1630. Lead by John Winthrop, who authored "A Model of Christian Charity" .~ , .' which described their intended role in America: "Wee are a Company professing our selues fellow members of Chri st...knitt together by thls bond of loue.. .Wee are entered into Covenant with him for this worke... For wee must Consider that wee shall be as a Citty vpon a.Hill, the eies of all people are vppon vs; soe that if wee shall dale falsely with our god in this worke wee haue vndertaken and soe causeshimto withdrawe his present help from vs, wee shall be made a stroy and a by-word through the world"

6. The Charter of Maryland issued by King Charles in 1632 said: "Our well beloved and right trusty subject Coecilius Calvert, Baron of Baltimore..being animated with a laudable, and pious Zeal for extending the Christian Religion...hath humbly besought Leave of Us that he may transport.. .a numerous Colony of the Enghsh Nation, to a certain Region.. .having no Knowledge of the Divine Being"

7. New England Confederation of May 19, 1643: "Whereas we all came into thse parts of America with one and the same end, and aim, namely, to advance the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ"

8. The Charter of Rhode Island, granted by King Charles I1 in 1663 said: "That they,; pursueing, with peaceable and loyall mindes, sober, serious and religious intentions...in the holie Christian ffaith... a most flourishing civlli state may stand and best bee maintained.. .grounded upon gospel1 principles"

9. Settlers in Georgia in 173 1 wrote what their purpose in settling was: "Our end in leaving our native country is not to gain riches and honor, but singly th~s:to live wholly to the glory of God." Their objective ww "to make Georgia a religious colony"

10. The charters of Connecticut, New Hampshre, and New Jersey were virtually a restatement of the words in the above charters

Note: For many more references see "The Myth of Separation" by Bavid Barton; !.t/allbuilder Press; 1992 Examples of Eariy State Governments Statements (Requirementsfor holding public offue at the time of the Founding ofthe USA) (Ecc 5:1-7)

1, Constitution of the State of Delaware at the time of the fo~dmgof the United States required that all office holders swear in public: "I do profess faith in God the Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ His only Son, and in the Holy Ghost, one blessed for evermore; and I do acknowledge the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by divine inspiration."

2. Constitution of the State of Pennsylvania required each member of the legislature subscribe to the following: "I do believe in one Go4 the Creator and Governour of the universe, the rewarder of the good and the punisher of the wicked and I do acknowledge the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by Divine Inspiration"

3. The Massachusetts constitution reqtured: "All persons elected to State office or to the Legislature must] make and subscribe the following declaration, viz. 'I ,do declare, that I believe the Christian religion, and have firm persuasion of its truth"'

4. North Carolina's constitution requmd the following: "Article XXXII. No person, who shall deny the being of God, or the truth of the protestant religion, or the &vine authority either of the Old or New Testaments, or who shall hold religious principles incompatible with the freedom and safety of the state, shall be capable of holding any office, or place of trust or profit in the civil department, within this state"

5. South Carolina's constitution stated in 1778: "Article XXXVIII. That all persons and religious societies who aclqnowledge that there is one God, and a future state of rewards and punishments, and that God is publicly to be worshipped, shall be freely tolerated..That all denominations of Christian[s] ...in this State, demeaning themselves peaceably and faith€ully, shall enjoy equal religious and civil privileges"

6. The Tennessee constitution of 1796 stated: "Article VII, -on LI. No person who denies the being of Gd, or a future state of rewards and pmshments, shall hold any office in the civil department of this State. Article XI, Section IV. That no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under this state"

7. Vermont, 1786. "Frame of Government, Section 9. And each member [of the legislature], before he takes his seat, shall make and subscribe the following declaration, viz: 'I do believe in one God, the Creator and Governor of the universe, the rewarder of the good and punisher of the wicked. And I do acknowledge the scriptures of the old and new testament to be gven by &vine inspiration, and own and profess the [Christian] religion"'

Note: Other States constitutions were vely similar in content to the above relative to requirements and qualificationsfor those that were going to holdpublic ofice Declaration of Independence (Unanimously Adopted in Congress July 4, 1776, at Philadelphia) (Emphasis added)

When. in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have cmneded them with another, andto assume among the powers of the earlh, the separate and equal station to which the hof Nature ond of Nutwe's God entitles them, a decent respect tothe opininions of mankiud requires that they should declare the causes which impel them tothe separation. We hold these tnrths to be self-evidenf that all men are aeoled epd,that they are endowed by their Creotor wrth certain unalienable Ri@ts,that amongthese are Life, Liberty, andthe pursuit of Happmess. That to secure these righki, Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers fiomthe consent ofthe governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive ofthese ends, it is the Right ofthe People to aiter or to abolish it, andto instie new Govemmenf laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effedtheir Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will didate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposedto suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to rightthemelves by abolishingthe forms to wbich they are aaustomed But when a lmgtmm of abuses and usurpations, p,wsuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despatism, it is their rig& it is their duty, to throw off such Gov-enf and to provide new Guards for their firture security. Such has been the patimt sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity whid amstrains them to altertheir former Sydems of Government The history ofthe present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having m direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny overthese States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world He has refused his Assent lo Laws, the most wholesome and necessary forthe public good He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless su-dedtheir operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to atlend to them. He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large didrids of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right mestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only. He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant ffathe depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatigumgthem into compliance with his measures. He has dissolved Rqxeserrtative Houses repeatedly, for opposingwith manly hesshis invasion of the rigtrts ofthe people. He has refused for a longtime, after such dissolutionq to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large fortheir exercise; the State remammg m themeantime exposedto all the dangers of invasion &om withoul, and oonwlsions wiibin. He has endeavored to prevent the population ofthese States; for that purpose obsmdingthe Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands. He has obstruded the Amnini~aiioa~f Justice, by rehinghii Assent lo laws for esiablishmg Judiciary Powers. He has made Judges dependent m his Wi along, forthe tenure oftheir offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. He has evxied a multitude of New mes, and sent hither swarms of Oacers to harass our people, and eat out their substance. He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent or ow Legislature. He has affected to render the Military independart of and superior to the Civil power He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdidion foreip to our constitution, and unachowledged by ow Jaws; giving his Assent to their Ads of preimded Legislatim: For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: Forprdedhgthem, by a mock Trial ffom punishmat for any Murders which they should amunit onthe Inhabitants ofthese States: For &g off wr Trade with all parts of the world: Fcrr iqmimg Taxes on us without our Consent: For depriving us in many cases of the hefts of Trial by jury: For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offenses: For ablishingthe free System of English Laws in a nei&boring Rohce, esiablishiogtherein an Arbitrary govemmenf and enlarging its Boundaries so as to rendex it at once an example and fd &rum& for klmducingthe same absolute rule into these Colonies: For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fmdameutally the Fmof our Government: For suspending our omLegislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever. He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out ofhis Rotedim and waging War agadus. He has plundered ow seas, ravaged our Coa-, buml ow towns, and destroyed the lives of owpeople. He is at thistimetransporting large Armies of foreip Mercenaria to complete the works of' death, desol&x~and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and t~tallyunwdy the Head of a civilized nation. He has coodrained our fellowCkizms taka captive cm the high Seas to bear Arms agamst their Coucitry, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or lo fall themselves by their Hands. He has excited domestic insurrections among us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of ow ffders, the merciless Indian Savages. whose horn rule ofwarfare, is an undisd'mquished destruaiw of all ages, sexes and ccnditions. In every stage of these wessians We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been mered dyby repeded mjw. A Prince, whose dander isthus marked by every act which may define a T- is unlitto bethe ruler of a ffee people. Nor have we been wanting in zttention io our British brethren. We have warned them fiom time to time of attempts by their legislatureto exhd an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have rtxnkded them ofthe circumstances of our emigration and dement here. We have paledto their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our oormncm kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably intemp our conne&cns and mespondence. They, too, have been deafto the voice ofjustice and of consanguinity. We mu$ therefore, acquiesce in thenew,which denounces ow Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind; Enemies in War, m Peace Friends: We therefore, the Represatatives ofthe United States of America, m General Congress, Assembled, appealingto the Supreme J&e of fhe world for the reditude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by authority ofthe gdPeople of these Colcnies, soldy~ublish and declare, That these United Colonies, are and of Right ought to be fiee and indqmdent Stales; that they are Absolved &om all Allegiance to the British Croq and that all political connedion between them andthe State of Great Britain is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, mclude Peace, cuntrad .Alliance, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent Stat= may of right do. And forihe support ofthis Declaration, with a fm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes. and our sac~edHonor.

John Hand James Wilson Geo. Wahon Phil. Livingston W. Ross Wm Hooper Caesar Rodney Frances Lewis Joseph Hewes Geo. Reed John Pm Lewis Monis Iho. M Kean Edward Rulledge Wm Floyd Thos. Heyward, Jr.

Richard Stoddon John Witherspoon Francis Hopkinson John Hart Abra Clark Josiah Bartl& Wm. Whipple Samuel Adams John Adams Robt. Treat Payne Eldridge Gerry Stephen Hopkins William Ellery Roger Sherman Samuel Huntingon Wm W'iiams Oliver Wolcott Matthew Thornton Butm &innen Lyman Hall nomas Lyn* Jr. Arthw Middleton Samuel Chase Wm Paca Thos. Stone Charles Carrol of Carrolhon George Wythe Richard Henry Lee Thos. Jefferscn Eknj. Harrison Thos. Nelson, h. Francis Li&tfwt Lee Carter Braon Robt Morris Benjamin Franklin %amin Rush John Morton Geo. Clymer Jas. Smith Geo. Taylor Basic Principles in the Declaration of Independence o Belief in a Creator; "We hold rhese rmhs to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, thal among these ore Lfe, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness"

o There is a God, he is the creator and we are his creatures (Gen 1:l; Rom 1:20) o Man is accountable to a supreme Being who brought him into existence @om 9:20-21) o Implies that there is equality before God - nobody is endowed with more rights than anyone else (each person is equally a sinner before God)(Gal3:28)(Rom 323). If evolution were true, there would be no basis for legally treating everyone equal under the law o Life: the sanctity of life is not to be abused by man, life is the purview of the creator; man is created in the image of God and as such has dignity (Ex 20:13)(also - live a quiet life) o Liberty we are not to be in bondage to others and we are not to be fwced to violate our consciences (Ex 21:16; Deu 245) o Pursuit ofhappiness: This is a gift of God (Ecc 3:13); the context of its use it means property (Ex 20:15; 20:17); Lnfers the right to protect our propertyhear ms o Belief in God being the Lawgiver; '!...toassrune among thepmers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature andof Nature's God entitle them... "

o This supreme Being (God) has revealed His law to mankind in several ways, both by self evident laws of nature and through special revelation, (the Bible). o Laws ofNature are self evident to man, written upon their hearts wom 2:14-15) o Implication is that laws made in contradiction to God's laws are not valid (Acts 5:29) o Implies that God's laws apply to all nations since nature is everywhere manifest (Deu 45-8) o Irnplies that a nation (and man) is sinful and must have his actions governed by laws o One nation is no more sovereign in this world than another - since they derive their very existence (dependance) fim a God who allows them to exist (Rom 13:l-5) o Implies there is a standard that is knowable (laws) that are to govern in man's afhirs (conscience - self control; Bible -judgment) o Belief that God is the Judge; "We... appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world.."

o Explicitly identifies God as the ultimate judge - there is no other higher authority for a people or a nation to appeal to (Matt 25132; Acts 17:31; Rom 2:16; 14:10) o Implies man (and the entire world) will be ultimately judged by God

o Implies that all other avenues of seeking justice have been exhausted (Rom 1217-19) o Belief that God is the Provider; "Andfor the support of this Declaration, with afirm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each otkour Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor"

o Indicates belief in a sovereign God who works his will in mankind (Isa 14:24) o God is looked to for protection of lives, possessions, and even reputation o The people are to be governed by a written document embodying principle (mstitutimalism)

o Fundamentally, the Declaration of Independence declares independence from England, and in a real sense dependence upon God Religious Affiliation of the Delegates to the Constitutional Convention

1. Introduction: Deism and Christianity

a. Both are compatible relative to (first five defrned by Lord Herbert - father of Deism): o The existence of a supreme being o The obligation to worshp o The obligation of ethml conduct o The need for repentance from sins o Divine rewards & punishments in ths & next life o The existence of natural law o The role of government b. They Mer in that Deists deny: o Direct intervention in the natural order by Goci o The trinity o The incarnation o The divine authority of the Bible o The atonement o Miracles o Any elect people (such as Israel) o A supernatural redemptive act in history c. Deists believe in natural religion - acceptance of body of religious knowledge acquued solely by use of reason as opposed to knowledge gained through revelation (the Bible). Adherents: KantNoltaire

2. Deism in early America

a. Deism never gained a strong foothold in America (unlike England and Germany) b. The first Great Awakening of the 1740's probably cut short any major spread of Deism c. At the time of the Constitutional Convention confessed deists were not allowed to hold public office in many states (M.E. Bradford; "A Worthy Company: Brief Lives of the Framers of the United States Constitution" (Marlborough, N.H.; Plymouth Rock Foundation, 1982), pp iv-v.)

3. Religious afliliation of signers of the Constitution

a. New Hampshire John Langdon Congregationalist Nicholas Gilman Congregationalist b. Massachusetts Elbridge Gerry EpiscopaLan Rufus King Episwphan Caleb Strong Congregationalist Nathaniel Gorham Congregationalist c. Connecticut Roger Sherman Congregationalist William Samuel Jolmon Episcophan Oliver Ellsworth Congregationalist d. New York Alexander Hmlton Episcophan John Lansing Dutch Reformed (?) Robert Y ates Dutch Reformed e. New Jersey Wdliam Patterson Presbyterian William Livingston Presbyterian Jonathan Dayton Episcopzhan David Brearly Episcopalian William Churchill Houston Presbyterian f. Pennsylvania Benjamin Frankhn Deist Robert Morris Episcopahan James Wilson Episcophan/Deist Gowerneur Moms Episcophan Thomas hkEh QdcerLutheran George Clymer QdcedEpiscopalian Thomas FitzSimmons Roman Catholic Jared Ingersoll Presbyterian g. Delaware John Dickinson Quaker~Episcopalian George Read Episcopalian kchard Bassett Methodist Gunning Bedford Presbyterian Jacob Broom Lutheran h. Maryland Luther Martin Episcopalian Daniel Carroll Roman Catholic John Francis Mercer Episcopalian James McHenry Presbyterian Daniel of St. Thomas Jenmfer Episcopalian i. Virginia George Washmgton Episcopalian James Madison Episcopalian George Mason Episcopalian Edmund Jennings Randolph Episcopalian James Blair, Jr. Episcopalian James McClung (7) George Wythe Episcopalian j. North Carolina William Richardson Davie Presbyterian Hugh Williamson PresbyterianIDeist (?) William Blount Presbyterian Alexander Martin PresbyteriadEpiscopal-an kchard Dobbs Spaight, Jr. Episcopalian k. South Carolina John Rutledge Episcopalian Charles Cotesworth Pinckney Episcopalian Pierce Butler Episcopalian Charles Pinckney, HI Episcopalian 1. Georgia Abraham Baldmn Congregationalist William Leigh Pierce Episcopalian William Houstoun Episcopalian William Few Methdst

4. Notes on the above:

a. When two religions are listed, the individual changed their aiation at some time during their lives b. Statistics: - Episcophans: 28 - Presbyterians: 8 - Congregationalists: 7 - Deists: 3 * - Lutherans: 2 - Dutch Reformed: 2 - Methdsts: 2 - Roman Catholics: 2 - unknown: 1 c. All three noted with an "*" were raised in strict Calvinist homes and each studed for the ministry d Williamson was licensed to preach in the Presbyterian Church and conducted church services e. Generally, as a condition for church mernberslup most colonial churches required a sworn adherence to strict doctrinal crd,which included belief in the Bible as God's revelation and trust in Jem Chnst as the Son of God f. Primary source: "Christianity and the Constitution - The Faith of Our Founding Fathers" by John Eidsmoe; 1987 Influences of Biblical Truths on the Constitution (Eramples)

1. First Commandment: "You shall have no other gods before me"

o Ninth Amendment recognizes "common law", a hgher law that prohibits the exercise sf absolute, arbitrary power by the state. "In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of ma1by jury, shall be preserved; and no fact tried by jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of the United States than according to the rules of common law" o hcleI, Section 8, Clause 10 authorizes Congress: "To define and punish Plracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offences against the Law of Nations" o Extension of natural law, God given law o Implies that laws exist that supersedes legislative enactments of nations o War tribunals established to bring foreign officials trial for atrocities (appe&ng to higher laws)

2. Fourth Commandment: "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy"

o Article I, Section 7, Paragraph (2): "If any bill shall not be returned by the President withten days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him, the Same shall k a Law, in like Manner as if he had signed it.. ."

3. Eighth and Tenth Commandment: "You shall not steals'; "You shall not covet''

o Amendment 5: "nor shall any person.. .be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due, process of law; nor shall private property be. taken for public use, without just.compeqation" o Amendment 14; Won1 : "...nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without ctue process of law; nor deny to any person within its juriaction the equal protection of the laws" o Article I, Section 10, Paragraph (1) forbids the states from enacthg any "Law impairing the Obligation of contracts"; closely relates to property rights (Psalm 15:1,4; Eccl. 5:4)

4. Rights of Criminal Defendants

o Rights granted under the Constitution, include: o Protection against unreasonable searcheslseizures o Speedy and public trial o Grand jury indictment in serious crimes o Privilege against self-incrimination o Assistance of counsel o Right to subpoena witnesses o Right to be informed of charges against oneself and to confrontlcross-examinewitnesses o Protection against excessive bad and cruel and unusual punishment o O.T.; judges were commanded to be honest, refuse bribes, not show favoritism (Exodus 23 : 1-8) o Constitution; Article Ill; Section 3; Paragraph (1): "No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same over Act, or on Confession in open Court" o O.T.; two witnesses, otherwise presumed innocent in capital crimes (Deut 17:6; Heb 10:28; Num 35:30) o Defendant is presumed innocent until proven gulty (Deut 19:15-1 9; 1 Tim 5: 19; Matt 18:16; 2 Cor 13: 1)

5. "Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children put to death for their fathers; each is to die for his own sin" (Deut 24:16)

o Article LII, Section 3, Paragraph (2) : " . . .no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attained" o E a parent was convicted of treason, thx did not affect the rights of lus cbldren 6. The law of nations

o bcleI, Section 8, Clause 10: "...to define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high seas, and offences against the law of nations" o TIus implies a power and authority higher than mans (Isa 33:22) o Implies lugher law than laws of individual nations, laws that are extension of natural law o War tribunals bring foreign officials to trial for atrocities; violation of the laws of nations

7. Basic equality of man

o bcleI, Section 9, Paragraph 8: "No Title of Nobility shall be granted by the United States" o AU men are created equal, there is to be no nobility class created separating men (Acts 10:34) o Fourteenth Amendment forbids the states from denying to any person withm their jurisdiction the "equal protection of the law" (Ex 23 :6,9) o Equal status is guaranteed under the law (politically) not equality of ability or outcome

8. Basic dignity of man

o Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments contain phrase "life, liberty, and property" o AU men are created in the image of God (Gen 1:26,27; 9:6), thus giving them dignity above the animals and a unique position in creation o The right to life (Ex 20:13), liberty (Ex 21:16; Deut 24:7) and property (Ex 20: 15) are conferred Supreme Court Justice Statements - Affirming our Christian Roots

1. Honorable John Jay (&-st Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court )(1816): "Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the du ty...of our Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers"

2. Justice Joseph Story (served from 1811-1845): "Probably at the time of the adopon of the Constitution, and of the first amendment to it ...the general if not the universal sentiment in America was, that Chnstianity ought to receive encouragement hom the state so far as was not incompatible with the private rights for conscience and the freedom of religious worship. An attempt to level all religions, and to make it a matter of state policy to hold all in utter indifference, would have created universal disapprobation, if not universal indignation...The real object of the amendment was not to countenance, much less to advance, Mohammadanism, ar Jubsm, or infidelity, by prostrating Chnstianity; but exclude all rivalry among Christian sects, and to prevent any national ecclesiastical establishment which should give to a luerarchy the exclusive patronage of the national government"

3. "Why may not the Bible, and especially the New Testament ...be read and taught as a dlvine revelation in the [school]? ... Where can the purest principles of morality be learned so clearly or so perfectly as from the New Testament?" (1844; Vidal v. Girard's Executor's)

4. Justice David Brewer writing for the majority in the case of the Church of the Holy Trinity vs, the United States after examining every document pertaining to the foundation of this country over several years stated: "Our laws and our institutions must necessarily be based upon and ernhiy the teachgs of The Redeemer of mankind. It is impossible that it should lx otherwise; and in this sense and to this extent our civilization and aur institutions are emphatically Christian...This is a religious people. This is historically true. From the discovery of this continent to the present hour, there is a single voice making tbs affirmation... We find everywhere a clear recognition of the same truth.. .These, and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that this is a Chrishan nation"..." The morality of the country is deeply ingrafted upon Christianity, and not upon the doctrines or worslup of [other religions]" (1 892)

5. Supreme Court declared in United States v. Macintosh (193 1): "We are a Christian people ...according to one another the equal right of religious fiexiom, and achowledging with reverence the duty of obedience to the will of God"

6. Justice William 0. Douglas (1952): "We are a religious people whose institutions presuppose a Supreme Being. ..When the state encourages religious instruction or cooperates with religious authorities by adjusting the schedule of public events to sectarian needs, it follows the best of our traditions. For it then respects the religious nature of our people and accommodates the public senice to their spiritual needs. To hold that it may not would be to find in the Constitution a requirement that the government show a callous indifference to religious groups. That would be preferring those who believe in no religion over those who do believe... We find no constitutional requirement which makes it necessary for government to be hostile to religion and to throw its weight against efforts to widen the effective scope of religious influence"

7. Chef Justice Earl Warren wrote (1954): "I believe no one can read the lustory of our country without realizing that the Good Book and the spirit of the Savior have from the beginning been our guiclmg geniuses...Whether we look to the first Charter of Virginia ...or to the Charter of New England... or to the Charter of Massachusetts Bay ...or to the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut... the same objective is present ... a Christian land governed by Christian principles. I believe the entire Bill of fights came into king because of the knowledge our forefathers had of the Bible and their belief in it: freedom of belief, of expression, of assembly, of petition, the dignity of the individual, the sanctity of the home, equal justice under law, and the reservation of powers to the people. ..I like to believe we are living today in the spirit of the Christian religion. I like also to believe that as long as we do so, no great harm can come to our country" President's Statements and Actions Affirming our Christian Roots (SmaII SeIection Only)

1. George Washington, first president, first act of tahng office did so before God by placing hs hand on the Bible. After taking the oath of office, he bent down and kissed a page of the Bible. He then lead the entire Senate and House of Representatives to an Episcopal Church for a two-hour worship service

2. George Washington: "It would be impossible to govern rightly without God and the Bible" (note (1))

3. John Adams (1756): "Suppose a nation in some distant regon: should take the Bible for their only law book, and every member should regulate hsconduct by the precepts there exhibited.. What a Utopia, What a Paradise would this region be!" (note 2))

4. John Adams, first vice president and second president (1798): "Our Constitution was made for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other" (note (3))

5. John Adams, second president: "It would be impossible to govern without God and the Ten Commandments"

6. Thornas Jefferson, thxd president, one of the framers of the Constitution (1781): "Can the liberties of a nation& thought secure when we have removed their only ~LI-JII basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are of the of God?" (note (4))

7. John Qluncy Adarns, sixth president (1812): "No book in the world deserves to & so unceasingly studied, and so profoundly meihtated upon as the Bible. " (note (5))

8, John Qluncy Adarns (1837): "Is it not that the Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the Foundation of the Redeemer's mission upon earth? That it laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity?" (note (6))

9. John Quincy Adams: "The highest glory of the Revolution was that it united in one indissoluble bond the principles of Christianity and the principles of civil government"

10. James Madison, called "Father of the Constitution" and fourth president: "We have staked the whole future of American civilization, not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all of ow political institutions upon the capacity of each and aIl of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God" (note (7))

'1 1. Andrew Jackson, seventh president (1845): "Sir, I am in the haads of a merclful God. I have full confidence in lus goodness and mercy ...The Bible is true ...I have tried to conform to its spirit as near as possible. Upon that sacred volume I rest my hope for eternal salvation, through the merits and blood of our blessed Lord and Savior, Jesus Chnst" (note (5))

12. Abraham Lincoln, sixteenth president (1861): "Unless the great God who assisted [President Washington], shall be with me and aid me, I must fail. But if the same omniscient mind, and Almighty arm, that directed and protected hm,shall gwde and support me, I shall not fail ...Let us pray that the God of our fathers may not forsake us now" (note (6))

13. Abraham Lincoln (1863): "We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever grown. but we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplid and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitFulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. IntoAcated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace? too proud to pray to the God that made us. It behooves us, then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness" (note (7))

14. Theodore Roosevelt, twenty sixth president (1917): "In th~sacN world, a churchless community, a community where men have abandoned and scoffed at, or ignored their religous needs, is a corurnunity on the rapid down-grade" (note (8))

15. Woodrow Wilson, twenty eighth president (19 11): "America was born a Christian nation. America was born to exemphfy that devotion to the elements of righteousness whlch are derived from the revelations of the Holy Scripture" (note (9))

16. Woodrow Wilson, twenty eighth president: "A nation which does not remember what it was yesterday, does not know what it is today, nor what it is trying to do. We are trylng to do a futile thmg if we do not know where we came from or what we have been about...The Bible. .. is the one supreme source of revelation of the meaning of life, the nature of God and ...nature and needs of men. It is the only guide of life which really leads the spirit in the way of peace and salvation" (note (20); p. 117)

17. Calvin Coolidge, thirtieth president (1923): "They were intent upon establishing a Christian commonwealth in accordance with the principle of self-government. They were an inspired body of men. It has been said that God s&dthe nations that He might send choice grain into the wilderness ...Who can fail to see it in the hand of Destiny? Who can doubt that it has been guided by a Divine Providence?" (note (10))

18. Calvin Coolidge, thirtieth president: "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the teachmgs of the Bible that it would be diflicult to suyport them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country" (note (16))

19. Franklin Roosevelt, national radio prayer on D-Day, June 6, 1944: "Almighty God ...with Thy blessing we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy. Help us to conquer the apostles of greed and racial arrogance. L,ead us to the saving of our country. Thy will be done, Almighty God, Amen" (note (11))

20. Harry Truman, krty third president (not hornto be a deeply committed beLiever)(1946): "In men and nations would but Live by the precepts of the ancient prophets and the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, problems which now seem so dil3icult would soon disappear...That is a supreme opportunity for the church to continue to ~LIELU its mission on earth. The Protestant church, the Catholic Church, and the Jewish synagogue - bound together in the American unity of brotherhood - must provide the shock forces to accomplish th~smoral and spiritual awakening. No other agency can do it. Unless it is done, we are headed for the disaster we would deserve. Oh, for an Isaiah or a St. Paul to reawaken a sick world to its moral responsibilities" (note (12))

2 1. Harry Truman, thuty thrd president: "The basis of our Bill of Rights comes from the teachmgs we get from Exodus and St. Matthew, from Isaiah and St. Paul. I don't think we emphasize that enough these days. Ifwe don't have a proper fundamental moral background we will finally end up with a...government which does not believe in rights for anybody except the State!" (Note (20); p. 13:1) . .

22. Gerald For4 thirty eighth president (1974): "Without God there could be no American form of government, nor an American way of life. Recogmtion of the Supreme Being is the first - the most basic - expression of Americanism. Thus, the founding fathers of America saw it, and thus with God's help, it dlcontinue to be" (note (13))

23. Ronald Reagan, fortieth president (1984): "The frustrating thing is that those who are attacking religion claim they are doing it in the name of tolerance, freedom and open-mindedness. Question: Isn't the real truth that they are intolerant of religion? They refuse to tolerate its importance in our lives" (note (14)) 24. Ronald Reagan, fortieth president (1984):"Without God there is not virtue because there is no prompting of the conscien=...without God there is a coarsening of the society; without God democracy dlnot and cannot long endure ...Ifwe ever forget that we are One Nation Under God then we wilI be a Nation gone under" (note (15))

25. Historical Note: Congress passed Public Law 97-280 on Oct 4, 1982, the President Reagan signed it into law, with the following opening: "'Whereas biblical teachings inspired concepts of civd government that are contained in our Declaration of Lndependence and the Constitution of the United States; Whereas ths Nation now faces great challenges that will test this Nation as it has never been tested before; Whereas that renewing our knowledge of and faith in God through Holy Scripture can strengthen us as a nation and a people... "

Notes (I) Henry Halley, "Halley's Bible Handbook" (GrandRapids, hff: Zondervan, 1927, 1965), p. 18 (2) Adams, 'Dicuy and Autobiography", Vol I, p. 9,fi-om Adam's dialy entry for February 22, 17.56 (3) Adams, Charles Francis, ed,. "The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States", (Boston: Little, Brown, and Co., 1954), H,p. 229 (I) Padover, Saul K. ed., "The Complete JefSerson", QueryXYlI flew York: Tudor Publishing, 1943), p. 677 (5) "Letters ofJohn Quincy Adams to His Son on the Bible and its Teachings", (Auburn, N.Y.: James M Alden, l85O), p. 119 (6) Adams, John Quince)), '?InOration Delivered Before the Inhabitants of the Town of Newburyport, at their Request on the Sixty-First Anniversay of the Declaration ofrndependence, July 4, 183 7" (Newburyport: Morass and Brewster, 183 7) fl)Fredrick Nyneyer, "First Principles in Morality and Economics: Neighborly Love and Ricardo's Law ofAssociation" (South Holland: Libertarian Press, 1958), p. 31 (8) Remini, Robert K, 'Andrew Jackson and the Course ofAmerican Democracy 1833-1845", (New York: Harper andRow, 1984), vol III, p. 186 (9) Basler, Roy P., ed., "The Collected Worh ofAbraham Lincoln, (New Brunswick, N.J.: Rutgers Universify Press, 1953), vol. IV, p. 191 (1 0) Stokes, Anson Phelps, "Church and State in the United States", (New York: Harper and Brothers, 1PjO), vol. Ill, p. 186 (11) "Ladies Home Journalr', October 191 7, p. 12 as cited in Albert Bushness Hart and Herbert Ronald Ferleger, "TheodoreRoosevelt Cyclopedia", flew York: Roosevelt Memorial Association, 1941), p. 77 (12) Lundin, Roger andMark A. Nolls, ed., "Voicesfiom the Heart: Four Centuries ofAmerican Piety"; (GrandRapids: Eerdmms, 1987), p. 235 (13) Coolidge, Cabin, "The Prince ofFreedom: Speeches andAddressesrl,(New York: Charles Scn'bnerrs Sons, 1924), pp. 351-353, as cited in "The Annals ofAmerica" (Chicago: Encyclopedia Britannica, 1976), vol. 14, pp. 41 0-41 1 (14) Robert Flood, "The Rebirth ofAmerica", (Philadelphia: The Arthur S. DeMoss Foundation, 1986), p. 3 7 (15) Cassette Recording obtainedfrom Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidenh'al Library, Hyde Park, N.Y., June 6, 1944 (1 6,) Stokes, up cit. vol Ill, pp. 712-713 (1 7) Ford, GeraldR., 'Tv'ational Day ofprayer, 1974Ir,Proclamation 4338, December 5, 1974 (18) New York Times, '!Remarks by President at Prayer Breayhst': August 24, 1984, p. All (1 9) "The Speech That Shook the Nation': Forerunner, Dec. 1984, p. 12 (20) Steve C. Dawson, "God S Providence in America's History" 1988 What Happened? (Nobody will agree Entirely! These me Personal Opinions)

Within Society - The rise of secular humanism, evolution, multi-culturalism & paganism - The rise of spiritual and personal relativism - The rise of a corrupt, ungodly media culture - Legal precedents eradicating religion (Christiaoity) from the public domain - Open antagonism to Christianity in any and all public arenas Within the Church - The prevalent weakening ofBibiical authority (mid 1800's on) - The liberalization (pluralism) of the church and spread of the "social gospel" - The stress on personal boliuess and evangelism only (pietism) - The view that politics is corrupting and not appropriate for God's people - The widening gap between Biblical teaching and societal application - Increasing levels of prosperity and personal comfort resulting in apathy - Pastoral fear they have no legal right to speak directly to the issues (or leaders) - Fear of loosing "tax exemptn status has constrained preaching to "principle'' - The deadly "error" of omission- teaching by not addressing directly - Retreat of the church into its own environment. insulated from the world

Notes: Supreme Court Justice's Statements (Beginning of the End)

1. Charles Evans Hughes (later to be Chef Justice of the Supreme Court)(1907): "...the Constitution is what the judges say it is" (Autobiographical notes) 2. Chef Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: "Truth [is] the majority vote of that nation that could lick all others." "Natural Law" Harvard Law Raiew 32, p. 40

3. Chef Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: "...when it comes to the development of a corpus juris [or body of law] the ultimate question is what do the dominant forces of the community want and do they want it hard enough to disregard whatever inhibitions may stand in the way". Letter from Holmes to John C. H. Wq Aug 26, 1926

4. Chief Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes: "I see no reason for attributing to man a sigdicance different in kind fiom that which belongs to a baboon or a gram of sand. I believe that our personality is a cosmic ganglion, just as when certain rays meet and cross there is a white light at the meeting point, but the rays go on after the meeting as they did before, so, when certain other streams of energy cross at the meeting point, the cosmic ganglion can frame a syllogsm or wag its tail"

5. Supreme Court rulings (examples only) relating to religion: o Everson v. Board of Education (1947): "The First Amendment has erected a wall between church and state. That wall must be kept hgh and impregnable. We could not approve the slightest breach" o Torcaso v. Watkins (1961): Unconstitutional for a state to require all public officers and employees to declare their belief in God (dngincluded non-theistic creeds such as humanism) o Engel v. fitale (1962); Abington v. Schempp (1963); Commissioner ofEd. v. School Committee of Leyden (1971): A verbal prayer offered in a school is unconstitutional, even if it is both voluntary and denominationally neutral (the court's own records show that only 3% of the nation had no religious ties of any type - no belief in God) o Stein v. Oshinsky (1965): Freedom of speech and press is guaranteed to students unless topic is religious o Reed v. van Hoven (1965): Unconstitutional for a student in a public school to pray aloud over his lunch o DeSpain v. DeKalb County Community School Dishict (1967): Unconstitutional for kindergarten students to recite the nonsectarian prayer: "We thank you for the flowers so sweet;/We thank you for the food we &;/We thank you for the birds that sing;/ We thank you for everythmg" o Lowe v. City of Eugene (1969): Unconstitutional for a war memorial to be erected in the shape of a cross o State Board of Educ. v. Board of Educ. of Netcong (1970): Unconstitutional for students to arrive at school early to hear a student volunteer read prayers which had been offered by the chaplains in the chambers of the US House of Rep. and Senate, even though those prayers are published by the US government in the Congressional Record o State ofOhio v. Whisner (1976): Unconstitutional for a Board of Education to use or refer to the word "God" in any of its official writings o Trietley v. Board ofEducation (1978): Unconstitutional for students to form, on their own initiative, Bible clubs of voluntary membership in public high schools (reversed after passage of Equal Access Bill of 1984, whch the Supreme Court upheld) o Florey v. Sioux Falls School Dishict (1979): Unconstitutional for a kindergarten class to ask during a school assembly whose birthday is celebrated by Christmas o Stone v. Graham (1980); Ring v. Grand Forks Public School District (1980); Lamer v. Wimmer (1981): Unconstitutional for the Ten Commandments to hang on the walls of a classroom since they may "induce the school chddren to read, meditate upon, perhaps to venerate and obey the Commandments" o Wallace v. Jaffree (1985): A bill is unconstitutional, even though the wording may be constitutionally acceptable, if the legislator introducing the bill had a religious activity mind when he authored it 0 Wallace v. Jaffee (1985): Unconstitutional for a kindergarten class to recite: "Gcd is great, God is good let us thank Him for our food" 0 Graham v. Central Cornmunify School District (1985); Kay v. Douglas School Distnct (1 986): Unconstitutional for a school graduation ceremony to contain an opening or closing prayer Summary of Our Nation's Christian History Nation began as an experiment in the application of Biblical principles at virtually every level of society A Christian legacy has served us well for at least 150 years after the nation was born Within the last generation decay has begun to overwhelm this legacy Christianity has become not just "irrelevant" but the "cause" of many current social & nationalproblems The nation is rapidly moving from a Post-Christian era to an Anti-Christian era Ourfreedom to worship, evangelize, and influence society for good is rapidly coming to a close

Notes: Homework: Glean Judicial Principles From the Book of Proverbs (Eccl3:16-1 7)

* Legal foundation in this country developed over hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of years * English law provided a significant basis to draw fiom (Western Christian roots) r The country was founded by Christian men that knew the Bible Both Biblical truths and life experience with AtnericanlEnglish tradition trained our founders in a way that resulted in basic Biblical principles becoming the foundation of law * When we see a perversion of the court system, it is not the Biblical principles that are questionable, it is the sinfulness of man that corrupts 0 Many of the fimdamental rights and privileges legally protected are consistent with Biblical principles found in the Book of Proverbs A just enforcement of law is as important as setting the standard to begin with. Both must reflect God's standard, not man's

2. Assignment - identify as manyprinc&les of justice (as implemented in our judicial system) as you can from each of the listed Proverbs

o "A wicked man accepts a bribe in secret to pervert the course ofjustice" (Prov 17:23; 29:4) Principle: It is illegal to accept a bribe or have a conflict of interest in judging cases o "It is not good to punish an innocent man, or to flog officials for their integrity (Prov 17:26) Principle: Man is presumed innocent until proven guilty (Prov 17:26; Num 35:30; Deut 175; 19:15; Matt 18:16;2 Cor 13:l; 1 Tim 5:19; Heb 10:28 Principle: Protection fiom dishonest judges by allowing rights of appeal to a higher authority (Matt 18: 15 ff; Paul appealing to Caesar)

o "It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the innocent of justice" (Prov 185; 28:2 1; 29: 14; 22:22,23). "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (Prov 3 1:8-9)

o "Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent-the Lord detests them both" (Prov 17: 15;24:23-25)

o "Honest scales and balances are fiom the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making" (Prov l6:Il; 20:lO) o "A wise king winnows out the wicked, he drives the threshing wheel over them" (Prov 20:26)

o "The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin" (Prov 21: 12)

o "The lips of a khg speak as an oracle, and his mouth should not betray justice" (Prov 16:10)

o "The &-st to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him" (Prov 18: 17)

o "A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil" (Prov 19:28)

o "Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive, Do not say, 'I'll do to him as he has done to me; I'll pay that man back for what he did."' (Prov 24:28,29)

o "The accomplice of a thief is his own enemy; he is put under oath and dare not testify" (Prov 29:24)

o "When a wise man goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and scoffs, and there is no peace" (Prov 29:9)

o Other Proverbs?

Christian Citizenship Seminar

Session #3: What Does Separation of Church & State Really Mean?

Separation of Church & State Historical Conflicts

What Does Separation of Church & State Really Mean?

Is There a Hierarchy of Biblical Law? Notional Christ & Culture Relationships God's Sovereignty - The Separating of "Church" and "State" Has Church and State Historically Been Separate?

We Have the Answers! So - What Does Separation of Church & State Really Mean? Separation of Church & State Historical Conflicts

Obedience to a Mighty God vs. Obedience to Magistrate Kingdom of Heaven vs. Kingdoms of tlze Earth Evangelism Mandate vs. Cultural Mandate Sword of the Spirit vs. Sword of tlze State Heavenly Minded vs. Earthly Minded Eternal vs. Temporal Principle vs. Politics Christ vs. Culture Church vs. State Light vs. Salt

Two Domains - But They're Not Independent!

Notes: What Does Separation of Church & State Really Mean ?

"Everyone must submit himselfto the governing authorities,for there is no authority except that which God has established The authorities that exist have heen established by God Consequently, he who rebel against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bhgjudgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terrorfor those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commendyou. For he is God's servant to do you good But ifyou do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bringpunislzment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because ofpossihlepunishment hut also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone whatyou owe him: Ifyou owe taxes, pay taxes; ifrevenue, then revenue, ifrespect, then respect; ifhonor, then honor." (Rom 13:l-7)

1. To Adequately Overview this Subject, must lay a Foundation

Biblical law (an expression of God's will for us and mankind in a fallen world) Role of government (God's servant to punish the evil doer, and commend the good) Role of the church (bring glory to God and equip the saints in every sphere of He) How should the church and government relate to each other?

2. There's implied Hierarchy to God's Law (notes)

"Be holy, because I, the Lord your God am holy" (Lev 1 1:44,45; 1 Peter 1: 16) The greatest commandment, and the second one (Deut 6:4-5; Lev 19:18; Matt 22:37-40; Mk l2:30-3 1) Is there a distinction of Moral, Civil and Ceremonial laws in the Bible? (Ps 40:6-8; Jer 7:22-23; 1 Sam l5:22; Heb 10:1-8) Moral laws (eternal - both vertical and horizontal in nature) o Summarized in 10 commandments (Ex 20:2- 17) o Addresses internal heart issues (e.g. Ex 20:17) as well as external actions (e.g. Ex 20:14) o Were they revealed before Mt. Sinai? (Gen 2: 16-17; 4:9,12,13; 9:6; 9: 18-29; 19:14-25; 20:3,18; 3 1:19-32; 34:l-26; 35:2; Ex 16:27-29) Ceremonial laws (temporary; fulfilled in Chist - vertical in nature)(Heb 7: 11-28) o Governing external public worship of God; signs, types and shadows of spiritual truths revealed by Christ Himself (Heb 10:1) o Distinguished Israel fkom all other nations Civil laws (deal with the affairs of man - horizontal in nature) Judicial laws maintain order (governs nation, judges, kings, between people) o Applies in form until the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom o Distinction in laws is important to determine what applies to nations Biblical law applies to everyone! o Biblical statements giving purpose of law: Gal 3: 19; Rom 3:20; 7:7; 5:20; 1 Tim 19-9; Gal 3:24 Is There a Hierarchy of Biblical Law? (One possible approach)

/ "Be Holy, because I, the LORD your God am holy" 1 (Lev 11:44;45; 19:2; 20:7,26; 1 Peter 1:16)

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your stren9h. This is the first and ureatest commmdment, And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandment^'^ @eu 6:4-5; Lev 19:18; Matt 22:31-40; Rlk 1290-31)

"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, o You shall have no other gods before me o Yon shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shdnot bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments o You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone

o Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy o Honor your father and mother, so that yon may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you o You shall not murder o You shall not commit adultery o You shall not steal o You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor o You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbo (Exodus 20:2-17; Deu 5x5-21)

Examples of Civil or Judicial Law Examples of Ceremonial Law (Courts, penalties of the State; horizontal) (Lam of ceremonies & sacrifices; vertical) Ex 21:l-11 (servants) Lev 1:l-7:38 (offerings) Ex 21:12-36 (injuries) Lev 11:l-47 (clean & unclean) Ex 22:l-15 (property) Leu 12:l-8 (purification after childbirth) Ex 22:16-31 (social) Lev 13:l-14:57 (disease & mildew) Ex 23:l-13 (justice & mercy) Leu 15: 1-33 (discharges) Num 18:l-32 (priests & Levites)

Note: Civil & Ceremonial laws can be difficult to distinguish o For believers: reveals God's will; teaches what sin is; reveals the depth of pollution in us; the standard to show our need of Christ; standard to show our duty to God o For nations: testimony to wisdom and understanding of God; demonstrates blessings through obedience; source of standard for justice; ensure peace in the land (Deut 45-8) o For unbelievers: the standard to judge right & wrong; restrain evil; convict of sin o For government: provide the standard to punish evil and commend the good (Rom 13:l-7)

3. What is Government's Role Relative to its Citizens? (Rom 13:3-4; 6c)

How does it instill terror in those who perform inherently evil deeds? o Punishment is to be swift (Deut 25:l-3; Eccl8: 11) o Punishment is to be without partiality (Prov 18:5; 17:15; 24:23-25; 21:13; 22:22-23; etc.) o Punishment is to be without pity (Deut 19:1 1-13'2 1) o Why were there no prisons in O.T. times?

'Servant" = diakonos (deacon); with the sword representing power over life or death C' ,. li Uphold the (hopefully godly) standards that society desires @om 2: 14-15) Where is our government not punishing the evil that is around us? To "commend" the good is to approve of it, honor it (Prov 22:29; 14:35; 3:3-4; 21:21) What is the good that the government is to commend?

4. What is the Church's Role in This World? (Eph 3:lO-11)

The role of the church is first and foremost to bring glory to God (1 Cor 10:31) A role of the church is to reflect God's multi-faceted grace before spiritual powers (Eph 3:lO-11) A role of the church is to test* to God's truths before earthly powers (1 Peter 3:9-10) A role of the church amongst believers is to worship God and equip the saints (Col3:17; 1 Cor 10:31; Acts 2:41-42; Heb 10:25; 1 Cor 1l:28; 2 Tim 3:16-17,4:2; Eph 5:19-20; 1 Cor 11 :17-32; Acts 20:28-3 1; Eph 2:lOY6:18; Matt 28: 19-20; Acts 6: 1-6; Rom 15:27) A role of the church is to equip believers to be godly citizens o Instruct believers to: be obedient morn 13:2); respectful (Rom 13:6-7); pray (1 Tim 2: 1-2); work hard (2 Thess 2:6-15); expose evil and warn society (Eph 5:s-14); be ready with answers (Col4:5-6) o Seek the peace and prosperity of the nation (Jer 29:4-7) o Train to use giftedness for hrtherance of the Kingdom and ministry to our fellow man o To be salt as well as light in all of our endeavors (Matt 5: 13-15) o To remind us the power within is greater than that in the world (Rom 8:3 1-39) The role of church leadership relative to society: o Pastors were outspoken leaders in community/national issues of early America o Why won't pastors take a strong public stance on issues, leaders of the day? Commonly held historic roles of the church relative to surrounding culture (adapted from H. Richard Niebuhrj "Christ and Culture" 195])(see figure) o "Christ above Culture" (Modified theocracy) o "Christ and Culture in Paradox" (Dualism) o "Christ the Transformer of Culture" (Transformation) o "Christ against Culture" (Separatism) o "Christ of Culture" (Liberal Protestantism) o "Culture above Christ'' (Persecution)

5. Notional Historical Splitting of Church and State Functions (see figure)

6. Historical Understanding of "Separation of Church and State"

Constitution protected Christianity fiom the Central Government The Constitution itself- Amendment I; adopted June 15, 1790 (Establishment Clause)

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereofi or abridging the freedom of speech, or ofthe press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and topetition the Governmentfor a redress of grievances"

- No mention of "separation of church and state" in Constitution, Amendments or the Declaration of Independence Origin of term is fiom letter of President Jefferson to Dandury Baptist Association responding to a rumor that the Federal Government intended to declare an official denomination:

"I contemplate with solemn reverence that act of the wlzole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, " thus building a wall ofseparation between Church and State"

However: Jefferson not a delegate to Constitutional Convention, nor member of Congress when this Amendment approved, therefore his opinion could not be expected to be definitive What was the original intent? Prevent Federal Government from instituting a national religion or limiting the fiee expression of Christian influence! o See Handout and Congressional Judicial Committee rulings (1853): Both Houses unambiguously aErmed Christianity as the bedrock of the nation and the appropriateness of encouraging its influence o See Handout and Supreme Court decision in "Church of the Holy Trinity v. United States" (1 892) which thoroughly researched the roots of the nation and intent of the Constitution Notional Christ & Culture Relationships

Christ Christ above Culture against Church Culture above Christ Culture (Theocratic) (Persecutio~~) (Separa&m) 0 Christ the Transformer FldFl of Culture (Tra~tsjormation

Christ & Culture in Paradox (Dnalism) Ctpjf,f : c

Culture Adapted horn E. Richard Niebur 'Christ and Culture" 1951 (Liberalism)

Notes: God's Sovereignty

Theocracy (Word & Sword)

National Blessings @eu 28:l-14)

Many Commands (Lev; Deu)

Many Commands (Lev; Deu) Holiness (Lev 19:l-2) \ Tither & Freewill Ofikrings (Lev 27:30-33; Deu 12:lO-11,17-18) (Deu 14:28-29; Ex 25: 1-2; 35:4-5,21-22) Sacred (Sword of Spirit)

\ Peace \ National \ (;. Tim 2:l-2) CEph 1- 1 1 Gifted ss Societal Order (1 Tim 1:8-10)

I .I Ccrrkncc".' ;,-e Matt 28: 18-20 4cq A,

Punish Evil

Freavill Giving Taxes (1 Cor 8,9) (Rom 13:6-7) j l~irection The Separating sf "Church" and "State"? of Influence (notional relntionships, and representative Commands) Has Church and State Historically Been Separate? (TwSelected emxrpfifrorn Ref 1) Congressional Judicial Committees, January 19, 1853

Historical note: Congress was petitioned to separate church and state and to remove chaplains from the Congressional halls and from the dtary. The petitions submitted were referred to the Judiciary Committees of Congress for consideration. Mer extensive investigations and searches through the h~~toricalrecords and laws the following reports were filed (excerpts):

"In the Senate of the United States, January 19, 1853, MI. Badger made the following report: -" "The ground on which the petitioners found their prayer is, that the provisions of law ...are in violation of the first amendment of the constitution of the United States, which declares that 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." "It thus becomes necessary to inqye whether the position of the petitioners be correct." "The clause speaks of 'an establishment of religion.' What is meant by that expression? It referred, without doubt, to that establishment which existed in the mother-counm, and its meaning is to be ascertained by ascertaining what that establishment was. It was the connection, with the state, of a particular religious society [denomination]..." "We are a Christian people ...not because the law demands it, not to gain exclusive benefits or to avoid legal disabilities, but from choice and education; and in a land thus universally Christian, what is to be e,upected, what desired, but that we shall pay a due regard to Christianity...?" "The whole view of the petitioners seems founded upon mistaken conceptions of the meaning of the Constitution..,They intended, by this amendment, to prohibit 'an establishment of religion' such as the Enghsh Church presented, or any thing like it. But they had no fear or jealousy of religion itself, nor did they wish to see us an irreligious people ...They did not intend to sp~eadover all the public authorities and the whole public action of the nation the dead and revolting spectacle of atheistic apathy. Not so had the battles of the Revolution been fought and the deliberations of the Revolutionary Congress been conducted" "March 27, 1854. Mr. Meacham, from the Wouse] Committee on the Judiciary, made the following report:-The Committee on the Judiciary...had the subject under consideration, and, after careful examination, are not prepared to come to the conclusion desired by the memorialists. Having made that decision, it is due that the reason should be given. .." "At the adoption of the Constitution, we believe every State - certady ten of the thirteen - provided as regularly for the support of the Church as for the mpprt of the Government...Had the people, during the Revolution, had a suspicion of any attempt to war againsf Chnstianity, that Revolution would have been strangled in its cradle. At the time of the adoption of the Constitution and the amendments, the universal sentiment was that Chnstianity should be encouraged, not any one sect [denomination].. . " "It [Chnstianity] must be considered as the foundation on which the whole structure rests. Laws will not have permanence or power without the sanction of religious sentiment, - without a firm belief that there is a Power above us that will reward our virtues and punish our vices. In this age there can be no substitute for Christianity: that, in its general principles, is the great conservative element on which we must rely for the purity and permanence of free institutions. That was the religion of the founders of the republic, and they expected it to remain the religion of their descendants. There is a great and very prevalent enor on th~ssubject in the opinion that those who organized this Government did not legislate on religion"

Two months later the House of Representatives passed the following resolution: "The great vital and conservative element in our system is the belief of our people in the pure doctrines and divine truths of the gospel of Jesus Chnst" Church of the Holy Trinity v. United States, 1892 United States Supreme Court

Quote: "This is a religious people. This is hstorically true. From the discovery ofthis continent to the present hour, there is a single voice &ng this &innation. The commission to Christopher Columbus ...[recited] that 'it is hoped that by God's assistance some of the continents and islands in the ocean wdl be discovered. .' The first colonial grant made to Sir Walter Raleigh in 1584... and the grant authorizing him to enact statutes for the government of the proposed colony provided that 'they be not against the true Christian faith...' The first charter of Virginia, granted by King James I in 1606... commenced the grant in these words: '...in propagating of Christian Religion to such People as yet live in Darhess..."' "Language of similar import may be found in the subsequent charters of that colony ...in 1609 and 16 11; and the same is true of the various charters granted to the other colonies. Ln language more or less emphatic is the establishment of the Christian religion declared to be one of the purposes of the grant. The celebrated compact made by the Pilgrims in the Mayflower, 1620, recites: 'Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and advancement of the Christian faith... a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virguia.. .' "The fundamental orders of Connecticut, under which a provisional government was instituted in 1638-1639, commence with thls declaration: '...And well knowing where a people are gathered together the word of God requires that to maintain the peace and union.. .there should be an orderly and decent government established accordmg to God.. .to maintain and preserve the liberty and purity of the gospel of our Lord Jesus which we now profess...of the said gospel [which] is now practiced amongst us. " "In the charter of privileges granted by WiUlam Penn to the province of Pennsylvania, in 1701, it is recited: '...no people can be truly happy, though under the greatest enjoyment of civil Liberties, if abridged of.. .their religious profession and worship... "' "Coming nearer to the present time, the Declaration of Independence recognizes the presence of the Divine in human affairs in these words: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that aU men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.. .I; '...appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions...'; 'And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the Protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.'#' "There is no dissonance in these declarations. There is a universal language pervading them all, having one meaning; they a&m and reaffirm that thls is a religious nation. These are not individual sayings, declarations of private persons: they are organic utterances; they speak the voice of the entire people. While because of a general recognition of this hut3 the question has seldom ken presented to the courts, yet we kdthat in Updegraph v. The Commonwealth, it was decided that, 'Christianity, general Christianity, is, and always has bee9 a part of the common law ...notChristianity with an established church... but Christianity with liberty of conscience to all men.,, And in The People v. Ruggles, speakmg as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of New York said: 'The people of this State, in common with the people of this country, profess the general doctrines of Christianity, as the rule of their faith and practice. ..We are a Christian people, and the morality of the country is deeply engrafted upon Christianity, and not upon the doctrines or worship of those impostors [other religions].' And in the famous case of Vidal v. Girard's Executors, th~sCo urt...observed: 'It is also said, and truly, that the Chnstianreligion is a part of the common law ...' These, and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that tins is a Christian nation."

Notes: 1. The Court quoted from 18 sources and alluded to over forty others, and acknowledged "many other" from which selections could have ken made. The complete ruling cited from 44 state constitutions (total states in 1892)

Other Court cases: 1. The People v. Ruggles, 181 1; Supreme Court of New York sustained lower courts conviction of one that committed blasphemy against God, and contumelious reproaches, and profane ridicule of Chnst or the Holy Scriptures, are offenses pwshable at the common law, whether uttered by word. or mitings 2. Updegraph v. The Commonwealth, 1824; Supreme Court of Pennsylvania dealt with blasphemy - sustaining the lower courts conviction and the legality of laws on blasphemy 3. Vidal v. Girard's Executors, 1844; United States Supreme Court ruled that a stipulation in the bqueathmg of an iaheritance to form a college, but with the restriction that no minister of any sect could hold any position there. Court ruled separating Christianity from education was "repugnant" and could not be done - moral principles must be taught from the Bible

Ref I: "7'he Myth of Separation - What is the correct relationship between Church and State? ";David Barton, 7.T'allbtiilder Press, 1992, pages 48, 49, 50. 132,133 o Additional Supreme Court case ( "Reynolds v. United States " (4878)) specifically used Jefferson's letter to show nation's laws and government were to protect Christian foundation

7. "New" Interpretation of Establishment Clause (1947) resulted in systematic dismantling of Christian presence throughout the nation (All governmental levels)

"Everson v. Board of Education", Supreme Court ruled:

"The First Amendment has erected a wall between church and state. That wall must be kept high and impregnable. We could not approve the slightest breach" ...[n ]either a state nor the Federal Government...can pass laws which aid one religion, aid all religions, or prefer one religion over another. "

This decision used Jefferson's letter out of context, did not cite any previous precedent, ignored all other founding fathers, patriots, and all fiamers of the Constitution Court used 14~~Amendment (originally intended to protect fieed slaves) and applied 1'' Amendment to the States (eventually used to apply all Bill of Rights to the States) Result: Common belief that no outward expression of Christianity at any governmental level is legal (contrary to first 150 years of national history)

8. Bottom Lines

The church corporate must not loose sight of its primary mission - bring glory to God (Major in the majors, and minor in the minors) The church corporate has the fieedom, and the duty, to equip the saints to be good, productive, and godly citizens Churches still maintain great freedoms that can be exercised, and have a right to call the nation and the magistrate back to protecting freedom of Christian expression and to not promulgate, hdor force it Supreme Court decision in Walz v. Tax Commission of the City of New York, 379 U.S. 670,90 S. Ct. 1409 (1970) - Churches still have rights:

"Adherents of particular faiths and individual churches frequently take strong positions on public issues including, as this case reveals in the several briefs amici, vigorous advocacy of legal and constitzrtionalpositions. Of course, churches as muck as secular bodies andprivate citizens have that right"

However: Churches that are politically involved put their tax exempt status at risk Developing Biblical approaches to social, cultural, State and National affairs takes sigdicant study & effort We have tieAnswers!

War Corrupt Government Without a Proper ...the Fall: Crime In.justice Understanding of.. . Suffering Disease... Pantheism New Age Exploitation ...Creation: Evolution ...Our Dontinion Mandate: POUutiOn Extraterrestrials Environmentalism Genetic Eneineerine... Animal Rights ... Pantheism New Age Abortion God k Word: Relativism Infanticide ... Post-Modernism Euthanasia ... Man's Dignity: Situational Ethics ... Suicide- ~ Offensive Art Senunl Impurity Pomography ,. .Marriage: Homosexuality Slave ly... Child Abuse Marital Strife Adultem ...Ar~tho@': Government Tyranny Divorce.. . Primacy of Child Rights ...... Results! So - What Does Separation of Church and State Really Mean?

To the Ungodlv it means: Removing every influence of Christianity & Christians from the public square

But Biblically, Historically, and Practically it means:

The Church: Tlte State: 4 4 Does not appoint public leaders Must not esiablish a religion Does not wage war (armed conflict) Must not limit free expression of religion Does not set national policy Must not establish doctrine Does not create or enforce civil laws Must not appoint church leaders Does equip leaders for public ofiice Must not establish church Does speak out on moral issues government or policies Does pray for our leaders and nation Does apply Biblical worldview to society through moral persuasion

Notes:

Christian Citizenship Seminar

Session #4: What Practical Things Can I Do?

Why Don't We Get Involved? There are Potential Dangers What's the Role of Church Leadership? Practical Opportunities and Activities

Practical Initiatives a Church Christian Citizenship Ministry Can Do Christian Citizenship Alerts Leveraging Talent & Information "Christian Citizenship''CCurricuhm Available Biblical Qualifications for Candidates Prayer for Those in Authority Over Us Voter Guides? Guidelines in Writing a Letter to Legislators, Advertisers or Media Executives Legal Assistance Selected Resource List for Further Study & Use Local Action Tools (from Center for Reclaiming America) Additional Useful Web Sites Bottom Lines Suggested Next Steps (Individual Actions) Suggested Next Steps (Church Actions)

Horizon Bible Institute - Additional Projects for College Credit (1 Unit) Whv Don't We Get Involved?

"The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside!', or 'I will be murdered in the streets!"' (Rov 2213) "Fear of man wilt prove to be a snare, but wlzoever trusts irt the Lord is kept snfe."(Prov 29:25)

I don't see anv direct Biblical mandate to be involved

We are called to be salt and light in this world. In it's broadest context, this includes not just spreading and applying God's truths, but also disinfecting the environment around us, personally setting an example on involvement, and working for the good of our neighbor (Matt 5: 13- 16) We are called to point out sin in the land (Eph 5: 11) We are called to hold captive every thought unto Christ in every area of endeavor, including seIecting leaders and righteous laws (2 Cor 105) We are called to demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, however it manifests itself(2 Cor 10~5) We are called to pray and work for peace and prosperity in the land (Jer 297) We are called to be prepared to answer for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:l5) We are called to rescue those being led away to death in their own sin (Prov 24: 11 - 12) I know onlv the gospel can change a heart, not social activism

o True enough. However, God has placed a conscience inside everyone (Rom 2: 14), This conscience can be quickened by exposure to God's righteous standard of good and evil (Gal 3:24) o Just laws may not change a person's heart, but they can serve to change a person's actions. Otherwise, why do we teach our children right from wrong even before they may come to saving faith in Jesus Christ?

I don't think making a "better" pamwill bring move plorv to God o True! The pagan is stiU lost in his sin and a reproach to God o Godly irnplementationaf God's standard brings honor to God independent of the results in the non-believer o The standard shows that no matter how hard a person tries, they'll still fall short (no matter how poor of a reflection it is of God's truth), and will need something else o A pagan that is morally "good" will bring credit to the moral standard conformed to as well as the source of that standard WIzy slaould I want to improve Sntan 's world? o To contribute to the peace and prosperity of the land (Jer 29:7) o To be able to live quiet lives in all godliness and holiness (1 Tim 2: 1-2) o To show compassion 011 the lost, but never at the expense of the gospel message (Heb 13:2; Luke 10:25-37) o To prevent open dishonor to God's meamongst the non-Christianized (Nw 14:13-16) o Although it appears that Satan holds sway over this world, it truly belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:l) o The upholding of God's standard could be the vehicle the Lord uses to show the depth of one's sin (lawbreaker) and lead them to the only hope they have, Christ (Gal 3:24; Rom 7:7-25)

I may have to compromise on an issue if1 start.to take n stance

o Realistically, is it better to do nothing and watch the culture and environment we raise our children in become more and more hostile to everything we stand for? o We must determine the principles we're not willing to compromise on under any circumstances. This, however, does not prevent us fiom incrementally working towards a righteous goal o Is limiting some types of abortion better than no limitations at all? Is this compromising on a foundational principle? o Are we really only straining a gnat to ensure we can just@ inaction? (Matt 23:23-24) o Obviously, we must be careful of our motives at all times. But we're not to be so carehl that we are frozen into inaction

1 don't,have enou~hknowledge t~ be effective (I'm ijptorant)

o How do you correct this? By staying ignorant or by studying and becoming knowledgeable o Common sense itselfwill show what should be done many times o Did you use the same argument to prevent yourself fiom sharing the gospel once you became a believer? o God's common grace gives man a conscience to understand at least a shadow of what is good and bad, independent of the facts (consequences) o Being armed with data and good reasoning makes us even more powerful, however, this isn't a prerequisite before we do anything

I'm not supposed to throw pearls before swine

o For sure, we are not called be argumentative or divisive (Matt 726; Acts 18:6 example) o Not all unbelievers will be unreceptive (or cold) to solid information, facts and good reasoning, as long as we are not personally the stumbling block to them o How then would you fuM2 Corinthians 1O:4 which says we demolish every argument and pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God? We should at least be aware of the "swine's" arguments o By the way, the swine referred to in Matthew 7:6 are those that God's truths are wasted on to our own detriment. We for sure must be wise about where to pick our fight o Is this really just an excuse to not engage the enemy at a113

11 why should 1 wowabout it?

G Just as with spiritual gifledness (1 Cor 12:1-3 I), you'll only know if you're gifted (talented) in this area by trying, then evaluating o You know that there will be others that a.gifted and talented in these areas, your responsibility is to seek them out to support them in: prayer, financially as the Lord leads, encouragement, defense of them (speak well of them), voluntary work where needed, and the like ( 1 Tim 5 :18) o Also, seek those out that are involved in order to be better informed on the issues of the day and what role you can or should play (Rom 12:6-8) o Ignoring those involved in positions of authority and not supporting them could be knowing the good we ought to do but not doing it (James 4: 17)

I'm not tnu~htto enpage the culture

o What should you do then? G If your church doesn't have the tools, how can you help provide them? o If you don't engage, who will? o While you become equipped, support those that are gifted in these areas e I'm not directlv affected by the issqes of the dnv

o Maybe not at this time, but what about your children? (Prov 6:10-11) o Is darkness ever satisfied with the status quo? o Is this showing love to our neighbor and a concern for his well being? o What example did the Good Samaritan set (Luke 10:25-37)? Even though not "required" to help those in need, what would bring the greatest glory to Christ?

1 don't believe it's appropriate to impose my views on others

o God has revealed His moral standards and expectations for both believers and for humanity at large (Deut 45-8) o For example, before the fall: The sanctity of life was to be maintained (Gen 1:27,28) The sanctity of marriage was to be preserved (Gen 2:23,24) Man was given dominion over the earth (Gen 1.28; 2: 15) Man was made aware of his accountability to an almighty God (Gen 2: 16) o After the fall: The law of Moses was given to His people for their good, and as a testimony to the world (Deut 4.5-8; Psalm 96.1-13; 98:2,3) Man's conscience continues to display the requirements of the law (Rom 2:14-15) and the existence of a mighty God that he is accountable to (Rom 1:20) o Because of this: It is observable that turning from God's moral and visible truths (violating them, and our own conscience) will result in adverse consequences and will potentially yield devastating results (Joshua 1 :7 principle; Rom 1:21-32) Objective data and information (as well as observation) will usually show the horrible consequences of sin (Deut 28: 1-68) o We cannot force another to believe a certain way, but we may convince them of their folly (even AA, some human psychology, and self help courses show some "improvement" can occur) o You typically cannot impose your views on someone else, but you can affect a person's actions and behavior o Government's role is to punish the evil doer, by doing so it's imposing it's will on people. Who is going to define what evil is ifyou don't?

I don't think I can make anv difference

o How many apostles were there? Did they make a difference in the world? o Don't we serve the God of the universe? Who holds the Me of the king in His hand? (Prov 2 1: 1) o Who's in charge? We can't do anything by ourselves, but God can! o We're not called to guarantee results, we are only called to be faitfil to the high calling the Lord gives us o If God is for us, who can be against us? (Rom 8:3 1-39)

I'm afraid of the impacts upon myself or rnv familv that could result from engaginp the enemv

o Is this rationalization? We are called to count the cost in our obedience to Christ, not our own comfort (Matt l6:24) o We arenot calledto fearrnan(Prov29:25) o We are not called to imagine false enemies to get out of doing what is right (Prov 22 :13) o We must be wise where we take our fight, but fight we must (Matt 16: 18) o If the gates of hell will not prevail against God's kingdom, His church, then why are we so reluctant to bring the righteousness of Christ and God's truths into the public square? (Matt 16:15-1 9)

I don't have the time

o Do you have time for any TV, radio, hobbies, vacations, naps, sports, pleasure reading? o Do you seem to always find the time for those things that you enjoy doing? o Is this only an excuse to do absolutely nothing in this area?

I think it's illegal for a church to be involved in politics in any wav

o All scripture was given to equip us for every good work (1 Tim 3 :16- 17), independent of what the government says the church is supposed to do or not do o The church, with it's teachers and preachers is intended to train and equip us in doing the good works (Eph 4: 1 1-5:14) o Federal law prevents 501(c)3 organizations from actively trying to influence the outcome of elections. However, churches can educate their members in their Christian citizenship responsibilities and provide a forum for political discussion and debate as long as it doesn't favor one candidate over another or take a formal, church stand on a legislative issue not directly affecting the church

I believe politics is corrupt, sleazy, and bevond redeemittg, wlzv even worw about it?

o All legitimate businesses and professions can be redeemed and prosper for God's glory (John 21 :4- 11 ; 2 Cor 9:6-7) o The Lord is the one that places men in positions of authority to do His bidding (Prov 8:15-16; 21 :1) o Replacing evil men with godly men will bring righteousness to the forefront (Prov 25:4-5; 28:28) o Justice, properly applied, ensures order in the land (Prov 28:2; 29:2,4,14)

0 There is always hope in the Lord, even men of little account can be used for His glory and to fULfill His purposes (Eccl 9:4) I think this generation is totallv lost and bevond hope, it's not like the old davs, and we can't return, so whv should I be concerned?

o The old days were just as evil as now since the heart of man has not changed (Jer 17:9) o The old days were seen by us through the eyes of a child, we cannot go back to that time, nor should we even try and compare the times (1 Cor 13:ll) o It's not wise to dwell on the "old days" and pine for them, since we live in this day and are called to live it for the glory of God (Eccl7: 10) o It's never beyond hope, God will accomplish His purposes to bring Him praise and glory (1 Cor 6:9-11) I agree individual Clzristinns have n responsibilitv to be active in this nation, but is it valid for the church bod^ to be involved? o The primary focus of the church body is to present Christ in His fbllness, to build the body of believers up in their faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, and to present Christ to the world (Eph 3:lO-11; Matt 28:18-20) o Just as removal of God fiom the public school teaches that God is not important, the church body by not addressing citizenship duties teaches that it is not important (benign neglect) o The church with its gifted teachers and preachers is to equip all believers to be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim 3 :16,17), this includes being salt and light in every legitimate profession and sphere of influence in society (public schools, elected officials, etc) o In order to serve in a godly way in public service, it is important to properly equip the godly to assume these positions for God's glory and know how to apply Biblical principles to these professions, since they're serving the Lord not men (Eph 6:7) I know the Christian is called to do good and evangelize, but is he called to confront evil wherever its found?

o We are to have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather, we are to expose them. This for sure applies to professing believers, but the principle can also be applied to the world (Eph 5: 8-14) o John the Baptist exposed King Herod's sin publicly (Mark 6: 17- 18) o The law is intended to control the ungodly, and everything that is contrary to the glorious gospel (1 Tim 1:s-11) o If a believer is in a leadership position, he is called to root out evil from his presence (Prov 20:26) o Even Christ Himself drove out the money changers from His father's house (Matt 21:12-13) 0 If a Christian will not stand up for what is right, who will? There are Potential Dangers

". ..the making of issues there is no end" Improper priority balance of chz~rcltor individual Discoziragement, burn-out, lack of perceived "success" Misplaced "Holy War" syndrome Divisiveness amongst believers who disagree on issues "Sepnmtion of Church & State" misconception difficulties Church public scrutiny, visibility & possible litigation Risk of jeopardizing church tnx exempt statzrs Alliances with churches (or groups) on moral isszies with rlifferent doctrinnl stances What's the Role of Church Leadership ? To ensure: - Sufficient oversight of all activities to bring glory to Christ - Accountability of all activities for the good of the participants To encourage members to: Not create offense or division when.sharing political views (Rom 14:19) Not look down on those with greater or lesser political involvement (1 Cor 12:4-7) Distribute material only when welcome Respect formal worship times and refrain from distributing material or engaging in political debate accordingly Understand the church will not formally endorse a candidate for elective office

Notes: What's the Role of Ch urch Leadership ? (Cont 'd)

To encourage church members to actively participate in: - Intercessory prayer for those in leadership over us (1 Tim 2:l-4) - Encouraging officials to fulfill their responsibilities in a righteous way (Rom 13:3-4) - Meeting regularly on citizenship concerns - Pursuing public office as personal giftedness, desire and opportunity allow - Influencing and encouraging godIy candidates seeking elective office - All elections to appoint godly leadership - Becoming knowledgeable on moral issues of societal concern - The establishment and just enforcement of righteous laws (1 Tim 1:s-11) - Coordination with other Christ-centered churches to multiply effectiveness

Notes: Practical Initiatives a Church Christian Citizenship Ministw Can Do

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at theproper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to allpeople, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. " (Gal 6:9-10)

The following is a short list of actions a church Christian Citizenship group can pursue to make a difference. It is roughly in chronological (growth) order, moving fi-om an internal perspective (organization and oversight) to reaching outside and collaborating with other fellowships.

It's important that co~nmitmentsnot exceed the ability to accomplish. Once a church organizes, there's a tendency to think everything must be done immediately. This can breed -frustration and disappointment. Prayerklly consider what your group is gifted at, and pace yourself with a long term perspective so that difficulty in gaining "success7' doesn't completely dishearten efforts. Remember, the Lord calls us to be faithfid in our service to Him, the results are dependent upon Him (1 Cor 3 :6).

Relative to Church Leadership Ensure church leadership provides oversight of all activities and signZcant decisions. They ensure the name of Christ remains honored in all that's done Ensure there is a hunderstanding of all legal issues involved. Seek legal counsel if uncertain Develop a formal church policy towards Christian Citizenship ($necessary) Define modest (realistic) goals for a specified time period and assess periodically Identlfy a mature, experienced church point of contact to coordinate all activities, lead meetings, report to church leadership and be the spokesman

Providing for Believer Education Prepare for and conduct specialized training classes (topical) or retreats Work with the pastor to outline an appropriate topical sermon series Generate a Sunday School Christian Citizenship class series Conduct a Home Fellowship Group Bible study on citizenship issues Create a permanent Citizenship library or set up a table or bulletin board during worship times with information of current interest Publish or route fact sheets, booklets etc. on specific topics Create a Christian Citizenship budget line within the church annual budget for education materials (books, videos, tapes, periodicals, etc.) Subscribe to election and legislation alerts from reputable Christian organizations and post in conspicuous place to increase awareness Educate church membership on success stories with inserts in bulletins Create a group E-mail distribution capability for interested members Encourage voter registration and provide materials to facilitate Invite political leaders to give their personal testimony andlor to discuss issues of concern with the membership Conduct voter awareness evenings on any number of general or specifk items of interest as a continuing education and equipping ministry Develop a phone directory for all members listing the districts they are located in, all elected representatives and contact information Encourage school children to write school reports on the Christian roots and influences in our nations history

Direct Outreach Build an advertising campaign (radio, billboards, other?) to address local issues fiom a Biblical perspective Organize and conduct writing classes to equip members on how to write effective letters to public officials, newspapers, corporations, etc. Organize and conduct letter writing workshops to produce letters to the editor, elected officials, TV executives, industry executives, etc. Develop and build Web sites containing reasoned positions on topics of particular interest. Use hot links to trusted Christian sites for easy access Encourage pastoral mentor& of current and future community leaders Organize visitation of elected representatives to voice opinions on topics of interest and concern to the Christian community Organize picketing, demonstrations, boycotts if needed (however, conduct all within legal constraints) Develop a publications and pamphlet ininistry to produce and deliver reasoned positions on moral issues to the community

Possible Joint Church Activities Conduct joint church coordination/awareness meetings on current issues of interest to the wider Christian community Sponsor joint church seminars or workshops for specific topics Pursue a vigorous information exchange and collaboration process Host candidate forums during election years to allow all candidates for an office to: speak on issues, give their personal testimony, answer questions Develop joint church resolutions on moral issues Form an advisory group to express concerns and encouragement to public leaders Pool financial resources to support ad campaigns ifneeded Identlfji specific expertise (e.g., geneticist) to provide reasoned answers to all collaborating churches when questions arise in that area Christian Citizenship Alerts (Suggested Cell Approach)

Volunteers, not speaking E-mail coordination; for the church One rep. Biblical principles; from each church potential actions; etc.

0 mc Phone Trees Leveraging Talent & Information (1 Cor 12: 22-26)

Example Topics of Interest

Dre:~dthof Knowledee

Big Church, TX Depth of Knowledge Specialized Understanding and Experience Shared with All

Notes: "Christian Citkenshig " Curriculum Available (so far) *

Specific Issues Introduction/Ovewiew Abortion Illegal Aliens Christian Worldview (2) Animal Rights Is there a Just War? Historical Overview Art Jury Duty Histnrical Perspective Capital Punishment .lustice Is this a Christian Country? (2) Christian Solicitations Medical Ethics Roles Creation/Evolution Multi-Culturalism Environmentalism Near Death Experiences Role of Government Euthanasia (2) Prayer in Gov. Schools RoIe of the Church Extraterrestrials SI-avery RoIe of the Law Gambling Stem Cells Separation of Church &State Genetic Engineering Taxes Gun Control TV & Movies (*) "Christim Gtizemhip" (The RoIe ofn Cbrisiinn in Suciem) Hate Crimes Voting Volume I: Student Outlines nnrlHndoub Homeless Welfare (2) L'oIunze II: Insintaor Derniled Notes Homosexuality (2)

Notes: Biblical Qualifications for Candidates

"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he plenses. " (Prov 21:l)

The selection of those that will "'rue" over us is a profound responsibility that should never be taken lightly. All who attain office are placed there for our good by God (Rom 13:1-5), and when we vote, we are an active party to who will occupy that office and the decisions they'll eventually make - whether good or bad. Just as its important to chose a competent auto mechanic, or brain surgeon, it's important to know as much about each candidate as possible even though at times it can be extremely dificult.

The following list is a starting point on what we should know before we are willing to endorse a candidate for an important leadership position. These lists help demonstrate how little we typically know about those we usually vote for. Also, these should be the questions we have in mind when we're doing our homework on an individual's qualifications. The list is ordered to address a candidate from literally the inside out. The spiritual condition is the most critical, then the principles that provide the bedrock for their decisions, the quality of their character as they act upon their principles, then their actual track record.

Qualifications Relntinp to n .Cnndidclte's Spiritual Condition:

Are they a sincere, committed believer? (2 Cor 135) Do they have a clear, personal testimony relating to Jesus Christ? (Rom 10:9-13) Are they a faithful member in good standing of a Christ-honoring Church? (Heb 10:25) Are they accountable to the leadership within their church? (Heb 13: 1 7) Do they routinely seek counsel fiom mature, godly men? (Prov 1 1 :14) Qualifications Relath to a Candidate's Basic Decision Principles:

Do they understand the Biblical roles of the family (Col3: 18-2l), the church (Matt 5 :13 - 16), and government? (Rom 13 : 1-7) Do they understand the need for strengthening of families as much as possible? (1 Tim 5:s) Do they understand the need for rightly defined and applied justice (Psalm 82:3; Prov 21 :3) Do they uphold and defend the sanctity of life from conception to its natural end? (Ex 20: 13) Do they strongly encourage and support morality in all spheres of public and private life? (Eph 5:3-7) pualifications Relating to a Candidate's Clzamcter:

Would they meet the Biblical qualifications for Elder or Deacon? (1 Tim 3:l-13; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Peter 5:l-3) Have they demonstrated personal responsibility and remorse (repentance) for any prior sinful actions, and understand why they were wrong? (Prov 12:l; 1 Cor 6:9-11) Do they appear to be double-minded? (James 4:7-8) Do they appear to be ambitious for power, or for serving? (James 3 :13- 18) Do others you respect openly support this person? (Prov 27:2) Oualifieations Relating to a Candidate's Knowledge ofthe Position:

Do they have related experience in a similar type of position? (Prov 22:29) Do they understand the issues and decisions they will face? (Luke 14:25-32) Is their previous voting record (Zany) morally sound? In not, is there a good understanding as to why? (1 Tim 3 :10) Do they have the necessary ability to work with dzerent types of people? (2 Tim 2:24-25; Col4:5-6)

Some thoughts on how and where to gather information follow on each candidate:

Contact the Candidate Directly

Locate the candidates office and ask for an opportunity to meet personally with the candidate If the position is a local office, it may be possible to visit the candidate in their home. This provides an excellent opportunity to learn about them and their views as well as their family life and environment Invite the candidate to a small group for questions and answers in a casual setting Find out where the candidate has speaking engagements and attend. Hear their positions on issues directly. Ask questions dear to you ifthe opportunity presents itself. Often they will stay around to answer questions one on one afterwards

Contact the Canrlidates Informtrtiotz Outlets

Call the candidates office and ask specific questions and for information to be sent to you a Keep all mailings you receive that are pertinent a Access and read the candidates web site (if they have one) a Get all press releases and position papers that are available

Contact Outside Groups

Track down local newspaper articles about the candidate Find voter guides that any of a number of organizations produce. A word of caution, however, be careful of the motivation behind the guides Contact local watch dog groups for information on "hot" issues Find out what individuals andlor organizations endorse the candidate Call local radio stations (Christian also) to find out what they know about the candidate Assess carefully what opposing candidates are saying If the candidate has a prior public voting record, find out what it was

Contnct any Acquaintances That Mav Know the Candidate

Talk to those you know that may have personal knowledge of the candidate to get a clearer, more personal picture of them Talk to the candidate's neighbors to ensure they have a good reputation in the co~nm~mitythey live in If you can determine what church they're a member of, make contact to find if they are in good standing. Talk to the pastor to find out more specifically

Coiztuct the Caizdirlnte's Campaign Manager and Volunteer

Volunteer to walk precincts for the candidate so you have an opportunity to meet them and find out first hand what they are like and how they are rumling their campaign Talk to those that know the candidate well to get a fuller view of them Watch how the campaign is run to see if it's a high integrity, honest campaign

The following quote from Noah Webster (1758-1843) combines two thoughts, our responsibility and the qualifications for office:

"It is alleged by men of loose principles.. .that religion and morality are not necessary or important qualzjicationsfor political stations. But the Scriptures teach a different doctrine. They direct that rulers should be men who rule in the fear of God.. ." "When you become entitled to exercise the right of voting for public officers, let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just men who will rule in the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government depends on thefaithful discharge of this dzity; if the citizens neglect their duty and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon be corrupted.. ." Praver for Those in Authorih, Over Us

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with tlznnksgiving,present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and you minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4:6-7)

Scripture gives very direct commands concerning our responsibilities towards the authorities God has raised over us. Romans 13:1-7 summarizes a number of key principles by stating we are to submit to them, and also give respect and honor where due (see also 1 Peter 2:13-17). We have another precious privilege and duty before the Lord, and that is to pray for those leaders as they exercise the power and authority God has placed into their hands. As 1 Timothy 2: 1-2 states:

"I urge therefore,first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone -for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."

Since this is such an obvious desire of God for us, the question then becomes what to specifically pray for so we will experience quiet and peacefbl lives, while setting a Christ-honoring example of salt and light. The following list gives examples of the type of prayers that are appropriate, and that should permeate our thinking1.

Pray for the salvation of each in authority over us Pray they would understand it is ultimately God who has placed them in their position, not man Pray they would understand their personal accountability to an Almighty God to whom they'll give account Pray they would see themselves as servants of God first and would diligently seek His will Pray they and their family would be protected fiom any harm or injury Pray they would legislate righteously, according to God's standard and not man's Pray they would appoint righteous, honest and fair judges Pray they would align their lives with biblical standards of leadership Pray they would use biblical principles to guide all their decisions Pray they would be diligent to seek out wise and godly counsel before making decisions

' Scripture verses supporting the above: 1 Tim 2:l-8; Matt 7:21-23; Acts 4:19-20; Col1:29; Rom 1.3:l-6; 1 Peter 2:15; Prov 12:24; 20:12; 18:15;24:5-6; 25:12; 29:12 Pray they would be honest and exercise integrity in their official capacity Pray they would be above reproach, with integrity in their private lives Pray they would govern according to the truth, even when it's not popular Pray they would be examples of righteousness to those they serve Pray they would be good stewards of all the resources God has placed in their hands Pray that they would have a clear understanding of the role of government according to God's design and not man's Pray they would have the necessary discernment to inmediately recognize evil and to reject it Pray they would use their office to restrain evil Pray they would publicly and privately commend what is good Pray they would create an environment supportive to the spread of the gospel Pray they would see their role as one that is to benefit those they serve Pray they would not make decisions out of expediency, but based on what is right and just Pray they would not be led gradually or deceptively into compromising righteous positions Pray they would not listen to ungodly counselors or self serving groups Pray they would not become proud because of their position of authority Pray they would not shrink from fUlfilling their God given responsibilities Pray they would not abuse the power which God has entrusted to them Pray they would not promote evil in any manner Pray they would not use their office to promote their own agenda Pray they would not use their office to promote their own popularity

Let's not forget those Christians that are not in leadership positions; they also need to be prayed for. Beseech God that they would fulfill their responsibilities diligently, and answer God's call to be involved and even seek public office to personally present and live to the righteous standard the culture around us needs to see lived out. Specifically, then, consider the following additional prayers :

Pray that Christians would faithfully pray for those in authority over us Pray that Christians would be an encouragement to our leaders to do good Pray that Christians would exercise their right to vote, and will use it in a godly manner Pray that when God calls His people to be involved in politics, they would obey and be diligent Pray that God would raise up godly leaders to replace those that abuse the use of their power Voter Guides?

"The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden." (I Tim 524-25)

Many churches use voter guides to inform their membership of stances candidates have taken on issues viewed as important to the Christian community. Though challenged legally over the years, guides that treat all candidates equally with the same questions are able to continue to develop, publish and distribute their material each election. Like any aid used to help make a decision, guides need to be objectively evaluated along with other information. The following addresses advantages and disadvantages of guides, not to trivialize their importance, but to help place them in their proper context.

Advantages of Voter Guides

Without them, there is generally an appalling lack of objective investigation made into candidates and their positions on moral issues (Acts 6:3) They provide a consistent level of information is provided about each candidate seeking office as well as selected ballet measures (Job 13:9, 1 Tim 3:l-13) Each candidate's position is addressed as accurately as possible on issues of importance to the Christian community (Prov 5:21; Matt 6:33) They address moral issues that will give insights into the candidates' true character and decision predisposition (Matt 7: 15-20) They provide accountability of the candidate's positions on issues so comparisons can be made with their record in office afterwards (Ecc 5: 1-7) Many times a small percentage change in voting patterns can have significant impact on the results. Guides can be the deciding factor They provide a common format of response from all candidates uncluttered with rhetoric (Prov 10:19a) They can provide a focus for the Christian community in the vacuum of anything else available They provide a convenient summary that can be taken into polling booths

Possible Shortcomings of Voter Guides

Experience of the candidate for office is generally not addressed. The user still needs to read about and calibrate on their quahkations (Prov 2229; Rom 12:6-8) Only a selected group of issues/questions is covered. These may or may not be the ones of greatest concern to you, though some will bc Past candidate history does not ensure continued, consistent stance on a particular subject (bait and switch)(Psalm 118:8-9) A solid moral stance may not imply expertise to operate effectively within the political structure, but it does help assess whether they are willing to stand for a righteous goal (Acts 4:13) Some candidates may not have responded in time, or it was lost, therefore inadvertently giving the impression of refusing to respond Sometimes the full text of the question asked of each candidate is not available, only a short summary statement of the issue. This provides little opportunity to determine if it was a fair question or not There is no opportunity for the candidate to give the reason for their response to a question, however, a solid "yes" or "no" could mean a great deal since the candidate is willing to commit one way or another and not waffle (Matt 5:37) Voting records are not necessarily indicative of a person's stance, since proposed legislation may have had other "riders" that were offensive and caused the entire bill to be rejected Use of the guide can become a crutch for a voter to lean on, instead of doing their own homework (Prov 21:5) When organizations endorse candidates or ballet measures, they are generally single issue focused and may miss a larger context. Also, many endorsements are provided strictly because of contributions made to the organization - not because of deeply held convictions Some guides use conservative (or objective) sounding names to disguise their actual biased leaning (e.g., Nonpartisan Candidate Evaluation Group)

Besides certain well recognized Voter Guides, there are other sources of inforrnation you'll probably receive either within or outside your church environment. Whatever you have, it's important for you to do your own homework. One of the greatest failings of many voting Christians is that after waiting until the last minute, they pull out their trusty Voter Guides, and expect them to define exactly what to do. This may be better than being swayed by last minute TV and radio candidate blitzes making "startling" new claims, but it isn't fulfilling our responsibilities to be an informed voter. Guidelines in writing a Letter to Legislators, Advertisers or Media Executives

Be careful to write to the appropriate persons (do your homework, who is the parent company or individual in charge)

Be sure to "cc" copy other appropriate organizations at the same time

Be original and use your own words, don't follow a form letter approach

Be legible (use a computer or typewriter - if it can't be read, it won't be!)

Be brief & to the point - don't ramble or cover many areas in the same letter

Be sure to keep to one page or less. Multiple page letters are easily ignored

Be precise on what you're concerned about (time, place, station, quote etc.)

Be appropriate, you don't have to show your Christian bias (may be immediately rejected), just state what's offensive and what you want done

Be polite at all times, firm, but respectfd of who you're writing to

Be clear on what action you are requesting to be taken (if any)

Be specific if you want a reply or not, and by what time you want it

Be sure others read your letter to check content, tone, grammar and spelling

Be sure to keep a copy of your letter and any responses received for your files

Be patient, allow a grace period following the time you said you wanted a response, then send a follow-up letter (referencing the previous one)

Be sure to send another letter if you're not satisfied with the response

Be sure to also write when you're pleabed with something Communicating with our Elected Public Officials

General:

0 Address the official properly (1 Peter 2:17) Be brief and make your point clear (Matt 537) 0 Reference specific legislation by title or number as needed Becourteous(2Tim2:25) Typically only address a single issue per letter Write letters of encouragement also, addressing spiritual matters (1 Tim 2:l-2) separately

Addressing:

The President The Vice-president The White House The White House Washington, DC 20500 Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr, President: Dear Mr. Vice-president:

The Honorable Dianne Feinstein The Honorable Randy Cunningham United States Senate House of Representatives Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20515

Dear Senator Feinstein: Dear Mr. Cunningham:

Phone, FAX and office mailing addresses:

United States Senators:

Senator Dianne Feinstein DC: (202) 224-3841 FAX: (202) 228-3954 331 Hart Building Local: (619) 231-9712 FAX: Washington, DC 20510 htt~)://feimstein.senate.~\-/email.html

Senator Barbara Boxer DC: (202) 224-3553 FAX: (415) 956-6701 112 Hart Building Local: (619) 239-3884 FAX: (619) 239-5719 Washington, DC 20510 Senator@,,boxer.senate.gov

House of Representatives Switchboard: 202-224-3121

Rep Darrell Issa (4gth) Local: 760-940-4380 House Ofice Building htt~://wnn.house.~o~/issa/contact.htm Washington, D.C. 20515

Rep Susad Davis (49th) DC: (202) 225-2040 FAX: (202) 225-2948 1530 Longworth Building Local: (619) 291-1430 FAX: (619) 291-8956 Washington, DC 20515 susm.davis@,mail. house.gov Rep Bob Filner (50th) DC: (202) 225-8045 FAX: (202) 225-9073 330 Cannon Building Local: (619) 422-5963 Fa(619) 422-7290 Washington, DC 20515 (through http://n~~w.house.~ov/writered only)

Rep "Duke" Cunningham (5lst) DC: (202) 225-5452 FAX: (202) 225-2558 2238 Rayburn Building Local: Local: (760) 737-8438 FAX: (760) 737-9132 Washington, DC 20515 htt~:llnnw.house.~ov/cunnin~hamm\iw~etaddress3.htm

Rep Duncan Hunter (52nd) DC: (202) 225-5672 FAX: (202) 225-0235 2265 Rayburn Building Local: Local: (619) 573-3001 FAX: (619) 579-2251 Washington, DC 20515 (through htt~:llm.housc~ovlml.itereu/only)

California Governor:

Governor Gray Davis Sacramento: 916-445-2841 FAX: 916-445-4633 San Diego Office: 619-525-4641 FAX: 619-525-4640 praydavis@~overnor.ca.gov

CA State Assemblvmembers (San Die~oArea):

66th District - Dennis Hollingsworth 916-319-2066 909-699-11 13 (L) Assernblymember.Hollingsworth~,assemblv.ca.mv

73rd District - Patricia Bates 916-319-2073 760-757-8084 (L) httu://revublicm.assembly.cago~~/members/73/suniev.asp

74th District - Mark Wyland 916-319-2074 760-631-7670 (L) Assemblvmember. Wyland@,wsembly.ca.gov

75th District - Charlene Zettcl 916-319-2075 858-385-0070 (L) http:Nre~ublic~.assemblv.ca.gov/members/75/suwev.asp

76th District - Christine Kehoe 916-319-2076 619-294-7600 (L) Assemblvmember.Kehoe~~assemblv.ca.gov

77th District -Jay La Suer 916-31 9-2077 619-465-7723 (L) Assemblvmember.Lasuer@,assemblv.ca.gov

78th District -Howard Wayne 916-319-2078 619-234-7878 (L) Assemblymember.Wavne@,assembIv.carrov

79th District - Juan Vargas 916-3 19-2079 619-409-7979 (L) Assemblvmember.Var~as@,assemblv.cagov

80th District - Dave Kelley 916-319-2080 760-568-0408 (L) Assemblvmember.Kelley~,assemblv.cagov

CA State Senators (San Die~oArea):

36th District - Ray Haynes 916-445-9781 909-782-4111 (L) [email protected] 37th District - Jim Battin 916-445-5581 760-568-0408 (L) Jim.Battin@,sen.cagov

38th District - Bill Morrow 916-445-3731 760-434-7930 (L) website http://reaublicao.sen.eagov/meb/38/feed.as@

39th District - Dede Alpert 916-445-3952 619-645-3090 (L) senator.alpert~,sen.caeov

40th District - Steve Peace 916-445-6767 619-463-0243 (L) website http://demoerats.sen.ea~;ov/senator/pea~ Legal Assistance

Have your rights, or the rights of someone you know been violated? Would you like to talk to an attorney to find out? The organizations below work to protect and defend traditional family values, religious freedom, the sanctity of human life and parental rights. If you think you may have been the victim of religious discrimination in the workplace, at school, etc., contact them and protect yourself and your family!

Also, most if not all organizations below have electronic as well as regular mail newsletters to keep you informed of current issues and success stories.

American Center for Law and Justice (AUq P.O. Box 64429 Virginia Beach, VA 23467 Phone: (757) 226-2489 Fax: (757) 226-2836 Web site: http://www.aclj. org see also http://www.aclj .or~publications/index.aspfor available resources

The Pacific Justice Institute P.O. Box 4366 Citrus Heights, CA 9561 1 Phone: (9 16) 857-6900 Fax: (9 16) 857-6902 Email: info@,,pacificjustice.org Web site: http://www.pacificjustice.org;parent opt-out forms for their public school children at htt~://~acificjustice.or~request~opt-out~form.htm

Alliance Defense Fund 15333 North Pima Road - Suite 165 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone: 1-800-TELL-ADF Fax: 1-480-444-0025 Ernail: asears@,alliancedefensefimd.org Web site: http://www.alliancedefensefund. erg/

Home School Legal Defense Associntion (HSLDA) P.O. Box 3000 Purcellville VA 201 34-9000 Phone: 540.338.5600 Fax: 540.338.2733 Email: infoO,hslda.org Web site: htt~://www.hslda.org The Rutherford Institute P.O. Box 7482 Charlottesville VA 22906-7482 Phone: 434.978.3888 Fax: 434.978.1788 Email: staff@,rutherford.org Web site: http://ww.Rutherford.org

Liberty Counsel P.O. Box 540774 Orlando FL 328 5 4 Phone: 407.875.2100 Fax: 407.875.0770 Email: 1- Web site: htt11://www.1c.org, see also l~ttp://www.lc.or~OldResourceslindex.htmfor available resources Selected Resource List for Further Studv & Use

Most of the organizations below have much greater resources available than is indicated by this listing. The web sites will provide good oveltriews of offerings as well as in some cases valuable tips on actions you can take. The book listing is a starting point to become more knowledgeable, but as with web sites, there are too many options to be all inclusive.

From: Center for Reclaiming America http://www.re~laimamerica.org/PAGES/resources.asp;to track an elected officials voting record by e-mail: http://capwiz.comlcrdmegavotel; for Christian Citizenship impact tools: httz,://www.reclaimamerica.or~AGES/actiontools.asv 101 Ways toReclairnArnerica Voter Resource Guide FASTFACTS (on line only) Locallmpact Tools (onlineonly)

From: Coral Ridge Ministries http://www.coralridge.org What if Jesus Had Never Been Born? (Dr. D. James Kennedy) Reclaiming America - Issues, Answers & Marching Orders (various authors) Character and Destiny - A Nation in Search of Its Soul (Dr. D. James Kennedy)

From: Focus or1 the Family http://www.family. org; and http:/lwww.family. orglcforum for CltizenLink information Why You Can't Stay Silent (Tom Miery) Homosexuality and the Politics of Tmth (Jefliey Satinova, M.D.) Community Impact Handbook

From: Frank Kacer (Grace Bible Church, Escondido CA) [email protected] Christian Citizenship - The Role of a Christian in Society, Volume I Class Sessions # 1-42 Student Outlines and Handouts Christian Citizenshp - The Role of a Christian in Society, Volume I1 Class Sessions #1-42 Instructor Detailed Notes Equipping the Church to Vote - Exercising Christian Citizenship in the Church Environment - Pamphlet for pastors and church members

From: League of Women Voters Tell it to Washington - A Guide for Citizen Action From: San Diego County Registrar of Voters (5201 Ruffin Road; 858.565.5800) Candidate Filing Guide Voter Registration Forms and Displays

From: Wallbuilders (David Barton) http://www.wallbuilders.org Original Intent (replaced The Myth of Separation) America's Godly Heritage (video) A Spiritual Heritage Tour of the United States Capital

Short Book Listing:

Bias - A CBS Insider Exposes How the Media Distorts the News (Bernard Goldberg) Christianity and the Constitution - The Faith of our Founding Fathers (John Eidsmo e) Enough is Enough (Rick Scarborough) Hollywood vs. America (Michael Medved) Homosexuality - a Biblical View (Greg Bahnsen) How Should We Then Live? - The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture (Francis A. Shaeffer) Legislating Morality (Norman Geisler; Frank Turek) Matters of Life and Death (Francis J. Beckwith; Norman Geisler) Slander (Ann Coulter) The Battle for Truth - Defending the Christian Worldview in the Marketplace of Ideas (David A. Noebel) The Death of Outrage - Bill Clinton and the Assault on American Ideals (William J. Bennett) The De-Valuing of America - The Fight for Our Culture and Our Children (William J. Bennett) The Tragedy of American Compassion (Marvin Olasky) Understanding the Times - The Religious Worldviews of our Day and the Search for Truth (David A. Noebel) What's So Great About America (Dinesh D'Souza) Additional Useful Web Sites

Advocacy and Information Organizations

American Family Association: www.afa.net American Renewal (arm of FRC): ww.american-renewal. org California ProLife Council: www. californiaprolife.org Campaign for California Families: www.save.california.com Capital Resource Institute: www.ca~itolresource.org Christian Coalition: www.ccca.org Citizens for Community Values of San Diego: www.ccvsd.org Committee on Moral Concerns: www.moralconcerns.org Concerned Women for America: Eagle Forum: www.eaglef'orum.org Family Research Council www.fi-c.org The Federalist: www. federalist.com/index.asp The Heritage Foundation: www.heritage.org Townhall: mw.townhall. com Traditional Values Coalition: www.traditionalvalues.org San Diego County Registrar of Voters: www. sdvote. c.0~ Vision America:

Historical Documents

American Heritage Library: ~w.constitutional.net/libra~.html Historic Documents and Resources: ww.vote-smart.orglreference/histdocs

News Sources

The Drudge Report: www. drudgereport.com World Magazine: www.worldmaa.com WorldNet Daily: www.worldnetdaily.com

Movie and TV Guides

Christian Spotlight on the Movies: www.cl~stiananswers.net/s~otli~l~t Family Style Movie Guide: www.familvstyle.com Focus on the Family 'Plugged in' Film Reviews: www.family.or~pplace/pi/films/ Screen It! Entertainment Review for Parents: www.screenit.com TV Spotlight: www. christiananswers.net/spotli~iht/tv/home.html Urban Legends

The AFU and Urban Legends Archive: www.urbanlegends.com

State Government

California Budget Project: www.cbp.org California Constitution: www.leginfo.ca. gov/const.html California Code of Regulations: www.ccr. oal.ca.gov/ California Courts: www.courtinfo. ca. aovl California Homepage: www.ca.gov Fair Political Practices Commission: www.fppc.ca.e;ov State Assembly: m.assembly.ca.gov/acs/defaulttext. asp State Senate: www. sen.ca.gov/ State Senate and Assembly Bills: www.lepinfo.ca.~ov~ilinfo.htd

State & Local Candidate Information

Top 50 Companies Promoting Homosexuality (as listed by the Gay community)

Gay Financial Network: http://www.g$I.comlqfiu'&5O.phtml

Misc.

Tips on communicating with elected officials: http://www.fic. or~understand~congress.cfm?CFID=l116823&CFTOKEN=545 7673 1 Opt-Out forms for public school children's parents use when curriculum violates their religious beliefs or convictions: htt~://~acific~ustice.org/reuuest~opt- out- form.htm Y Organize ei Action!

There is an old saying that goes action is to research your neighbor- MEASURE SUPPORT like this: "All politics is local." With so hood. This should help you find out Your neighborhood election strate- much money and pressure being how many people live in your neigh- gy should be tailored to winning elec- applied by national political leaders borhood, what precinct you are in, tions. Thar means you must find the and the narional media, this saying has who the registered voters are, and [he people in your community who agree been neglected by many. But politics location of your polling place. with your election goals. This is the remains a decidedly local endeavor. Here's a list of things you can do hardest part for most people. But Most issues and elections are won and to "scour the land": political movements REQUIRE rela- lost on the local level. And if you are 1. Get a city map which details tionships, and you are responsible for interested in making an impact politi- your neighborhood. making them. The best way ro make cally, the best place to start is in your 2. Contact the supervisor of elec- Continued on back own neighborhood. tions and requesr a map of your The purpose of a neighborhood precinct or district. TESTIMONY election strategy is to build a network 3. Also request a list of registered of relationships that will sustain larger voters in your precinct. Door-To-Door polirical campaigns. In the end, by fol- 4. Research to see how your neigh- lowing this strategy you will build a borhood or precinct has voted in Network Jump Starts system for mobilizing every like-mind- recent elections. This will give you a ed voter in your area. You will have an baseline from which to measure the Political Career effecrive tool for any political effort. success of your efforts. During the 1980 presidential This is the essence of what today's 4. Ask for a schedule of upcoming campaign, an undergraduate stu- political leaders mean by "building a elections in your area. dent at the University of Georgia grass roots movement." 5. Find out the location and hours jump-started his political career by BUILD YOUR NETWORK of operarion for the polling place for using the Abraham Lincoln your neighborhood. Politics is a people business. It is method of campaigning. essential that you get to know the REGISTER VOTERS This young activist was a political "players" in your commu- Don't be surprised if your research staunch supporter of Ronald nity. This will greatly enbance your reveals that many people in your Reagan for President, but then- neighborhood efforts. Tg build your neighborhood are not even regisrered President Jimmy Carter, a former Georgia governor, was counting on network: to vote. Your next step is to conduct a a surprise visit to the University I. Attend city and school board voter registration drive in your com- campus to shore student sup- council meetings. Follow up with munity. This will help you get to up phone calls and letrers to city leaders. know the people in your neighbor- port and gain media notoriery. 2. Get to know the leaders of the hood and give you credibility in [he Carter supporters on campus had planned a secret rally to energize political party you are affiliated with. community. Artend organizing meetings. 1. Contact your city's supervisor of the campaign. The student leader got wind of Participate in funcrions. elections and ask for information on Carter's visit only a day in advance, 3. Identify political organizarions how to conduct a voter registration but he knew his campus door-to- and other grass roots groups in your drive in your community. door network was a better political community (such as homeowners' 2. Some places where voter regis- weapon than any single rally. He associations, civic groups, churches). tration drives are common: church, wanted to turn the Carter visit 4. Invire officials and candidates library, local mall, supermarket or into a Reagan victory, so he ofga- to artend group functions to share recreation center. Be sure to get nized a mock-election to be held their plarform, goals and successes. approval prior to conducting your the very next day. drive. You can also conducr a door-to- SCOUT THE LAND door voter registration drive in your Overnight, his campus net- The first step toward organizing neighborhood. work of activists went to work. your local neighborhood for political 3. Advertise your voter drive. See Testimony on back initial conract with your neighbors is literarure disrribution, door-to-door available, the bank can be con- to conduct a neighborhood poll. Go to canvassing, phone banks, and election ducted from individual homes. the door of every registered voter in day "get out the vote" activities. However, it is more difficult to ensure your area with your dipboard and lisc 4. Write a friendly letter encourag- thac the calls will actually be made. of questions in hand. Important points ing your neighbors to vote. Tell them 4. Focus your efforts on the sup- ro rcmembrr: your position. Mention dare of elec- porters and undecideds. 1. Be honest, courteous and pro- tion. Give directions to polling place 5. Have a script so your callers are fissional. When they answer the door, and l~sttimes polls are open. saying the same message. smile and introduce yourself. 4. Invite neighbors to your home 6. Remind the people you call 2. Be clear about your goals. You to meet with the candidate. A about the time and place of the elec- are taking a survey For the upcoming hand shake from the candidate is one tion and ask for their support. eleccion (or referendum). of the most effective tools you have. 7. Never argue with those you call! 3. If they ask you whom you are 5 As the election draws near, 8. If they are a supporter, ask supporting, cell them politely. increase door-to-door canvassing. them if they need a ride co [he polls. 4. Never argue. Remember, you Always have a new bit of news or 9. Ifthere is time, havc candidate are taking a survey, not proselytizing. information to share. call undecided voters. 5. If they support your candidace, Note: Do not place literntzlre directly GETTING OUT THE VOTE find out if they need an absentee ballot in the mail box. It is against the law! or a ride to [he polling place. Mail boxes are reservedfor US.Pod Quite often, elections are won and 6. At this point, don't try to sway Service mail. lost in the last week of the campaign. That is why it is essential to follow-up undecideds or opponents. ABSENTEE BALLOTS 7. Keep it brief. Make a simple with your ;upporters in the last days bf note on your clipboard and move on! Especially in local elections, a [ew the campaign, and then "get ou[ thc votes can make the difference. Thac is vote" on election day. Here are some BUILD SUPPORT why it is important to find out if your keys to getting out rhc vote: Now comes the fun part! Local supporters need to fill out an absentee 1. The weekend before the elec- activists often have the most influence ballot. Voters must request absentee tion, place campaign lireraculr in plas- on undecided voters, and they ohen ballots from the supervisor of elec- tic bags and hang the bags on door mean the difference between winning tions. Let absentee vorers know the hlobs of l~o~nesin your community. and losing. It's now your job to rnoti- deadline for mailing ballots. Follow up 2. On election day, provide rides vate the people in your area. with these voters ro offer any assistance to the polls. - On the list from your survey, and remind them of the deadline. 3. Work the polling place. A highlight those who support your can- THE PHONE BANK friendly smile and a simple "sample" didate and those who are undecided. ballot can win over many undecideds. Cross out those who support the other The phone bank is the best way to 4. After the polls close, join your reach the mosc people in the shortest candidate. Concentrate all your efforcs candidate and orher sumortersI I at the an the first two groups. This is the key time. Here are some rips on conducr- victory celebration! to winning elections. Here are some ing an effective phone bank: Remember, many, many, many practical things you can do to build 1. A centralized phone bank is oersonal relationshios are the kev to support in your neighborhood: most effective. Locate an ofice or any grass roots efforr. And success will 1. Collect candidacc'literature. business thac has four or more phones. take time, patience and determination. 2. Distribute literature to support- 2. Sign up volunteers to man the But before long, you will have orga- ers (yard signs, etc.). phones at specific timcs. nized a Docent force for cultural 3. Recruit volunteers to help with: 3. If a centralized location is not change in your community!

Testimony from page 1 NEED MORE HELP? They put flash flyers advertising the mock-election under the door of every Thr CENTERFOR RECIAMIXL.,~~.IERICA is an Reagan supporter on campus. Midnight phone calls to activists in his network outreach of Coral hdge ~M~nisrries.Our goal is ensured a faichful turnout. Poll workers on campus the next day got out the vote. to connerr cirizens like you co viral resources so The students did not get much sleep, but the next day their work paid off. Results you can reciain1 your cornmunicy for Chrisr. of the election were distributed to all the local and state-wide media outlets. For more information, conracr us: When Carter arrived on campus, instead of being greeted with overwhelming Phone: (800) 582-4794 Fax: (154) 351-3325 student suppotr, he was asked by reporters why he lost the campus mock-election. E-mail: cfra@cl~~tir~isiries.org The tally turned into an embarrassing press conference and a signal of Carter's JOIN THE TW!For jusr Y 15lyear, you decline in [he national polls. Meanwhile, the event marked the beginning of a can become a rnrmber of rhr CENTERFOR promising political career for a young activist named Ralph Reed. Reed would go RECWMINGXh.I~Rlc.4 and have valuable on to direct the Christian Coalition and become one of the mast important pro- resources delivered ro yottr door! To join rhe ream, send your gifc ro: The CENTERFOR family leaders in America. And his career was jump-started with a well executed WCWMINC.AVERICA, P.O. Box 532. door-to-door network. Fr. Lauderdde, FL 33302.

0 1998 Coral Ridge Ministries. This Local Action Tool may be reproduceGin whole or in part without alteratiortfor non-commercial uses without prior permission pact e Future 0

If you are looking For an easy way One of the bar ways to do this is action has been taken by this school to rake owl- your school board, don't to serve the school board. Volunteer board? Are there any state or national read any further. If you want to take work is essential to the effective opera- requirernenrs that need to be consid- on your school board over a specific tion of any local school board. Inquire ered? This will give you an under- issue, this "Action Tool" is not for you. about serving on a school board com- standing of the current legal status on Because even rhough you may win a mittee. If a slot on [he committee is the issue. Also. gather credible source battle or mo with such an approach, not open, contact members of that materials. Remember that a scientific in the long run you will lose more committee and offer your assis~ance. journal will be more readily received often than you win and alienate your Forward any research or related infor- than a clipping From your favorite neighbors in the process. mation you have ro them. Get to advocacy publication. Political consul- There are ways you can work with know a like-minded member of your Continued your local school board and thereby school board on an informal basis and affect education policy and see tangi- begin to develop a working relation- ble results in your area schools. Most ship with that member. irnporcan[ly, your work can translate It does not take long to establish a into benefits For [he children in your reputation with a local school board. A school district. few minutes of threatening remarks WHYTHE SCHOOL BOARD? and you will have made a roomful of enemies. A small amount of service, Aristotle once wrote, "All who and you will have opened the door to have meditated on the arr of governing a positive relationship. The next step is mankind are convinced that the fate of to develop an issue and a strategy for empires depends on the educarion OF seeing that issue implemented. youth-" The Hunznnist Magazine in 1983 stated it more plainly: "The bat- DEVELOPING YOUR ISSUE Business Education Partnership, a tle for humankind's future must be Before approaching your school committee that links resources in waged and won in the public school board, you must carefully develop your the business and education com- munities of Greenville. classroom." Despite the recent growth issue. There are three basic steps to Soon, he became chairman of of privare and home edusation, the rake to do this: vast majority of students'are taught in a) document the probknz; the northwest area Business public schools. That is why public b) build your case; Education Partnership. This posi- schools are so important to America's C) develop a specif;rpolicy solution. tion of service gave him more fltu~.And since local school boards access and influence into the edu- School boards are designed ro retain significant control over what is cation issues facing Greenville. solve problems. In order to motivate Then, his willingness to serve was taught in the each community, work- the board to take action, you must rewarded with a seat on the ing with your school board will impact first establish with them that there is a Greenville County school board. our nation's future. problem in the local school system Serving on Greenville's school GETTING STARTED char needs to be solved. Garher specific board-responsible for 55,000 stu- Most likely, your interest in work- evidence of the problem. Review cur- dents in the 63rd largest school ingwith your local school board has riculum. Interview teachers. Document district in the nation-gave been sparked by a particular "hot but- issues that have arisen with children in Dwight a practical perspective on ton" issue. Such an issue will provide the schools. how concerned citizens can influ- you with [he incentive you need to Next, you need to build your case ence their local school board. take action. However, in order to make to establish your credibility ro speak Dwight owes much of his own a lasting impact on your community's on the topic. To do [his, you will need success to his time of volunteer education policy, it is best to establish ro do your homework. Find out the committee service and recom- that your concern runs deeper than local his~oryon the issue. Is there a mends the same strategy for others current school board policy? What your "hot butron" issue. See Testrmony on back

LHG tan[ Linda Hamrick says testimony down the street, because they just 6. Suggest a specific course of from a local expert on your topic is might be. action. Present the board with a policy invaluable in establishing credibility 2. Be calm and concise. Limit co acc upon righc away. Remember, wich a school board. Ask the expert to your presentation to three minutes. school boards run school discriccs wrire a one-page letter on [he issue Carefully think through what you are through policies. Be sure to propose a thar you can present to the board. going ro say, and keep your emotions policy the board can take action on. Finally, develop a specific policy under a tight reign. Even if chat policy falls short of your solution. What precisely would you Hamrick says wricing out and long-term goal, by giving the board a like your school board to do? While rehearsing your entire presentation will way to take action, you will be making your goal may include long-term help you stay calm in the heat of the progress toward your goal. objectives. ic must have a specific poli- bade. This is essential because too THE NEXT STEP cy chat can be implemented by your much emotion (especially anger) can school board in the current year. make the board defensive, wh~lea Do not denland immediate Remember, school boards work level-headed presentation allows the results. It is important to afford your besc in the realm of the tangible: board to respond to the persuasiveness schooI board a reasonable time to act books, curriculum, budgets, etc. It is of your argumen[. on your proposal. If the reasonable very difficult to sway a school board 3. Present your "smoking gun." time period passes without accion, go with purely theoretical and philosophi- Hamrick says she tries to bring a back to the grass roots and strengthen cal concepts that lack tangible benefit "smoking gun" to every school board your support base. Then, return to the or impact on the school. So be sure to presentation-specific evidence of the board and present the proposal again. frame every facet of your issue in ptac- problem in the local school along with If it is clear chat the majority of tical terms so it can be implemented expert testimony backing up her solu- board members oppose your proposal, by a school board policy decision. tion. Be sure to have specific, docu- you may need to re-think your strare- gy. Try a different, less threatening GOING BEFORE THE BOARD mented examples from your local school that demonstrate the problem approach. Present new evidence. Most school boards allot a time you are addressing. Present your expert Identi@ an ally on the board and work for "open forum" discussion so citizens testimony materials. wich that ally to influence the other can present their ideas and concerns. 4. Show community support. board members. These presentations will vary greatly in School boards are more likely to act if Timing can be the key. Watch length, style and content. Your presen- they think the action serves a large evenrs closely and present your pro- tation is important. Here are six specif- part of their constituency. Rally atten- posal again when your issue is in the ic guidelines to give your presentation dance at the board meeting, conduct news. Use upcoming school board the best chance of success before your petitions drives, or present letters of elections to your advantage. And school board. endorsement from area leaders to show remember, one swing vote could make 1. Submit your proposal with widespread community support for the difference, so support candidates respect. School board members are your issue. who are committed to your ideals. elected or appointed officials, authori- 5. Document everything. Always Working with your local school cles who deserve your courtesy and have documentanon on hand to back board requires patience, determination, respect. Approach them wich an atti- up everything you say. Wait until the and a willingness to serve. But consid- tude of service. end of your prcsentacion to distribute ering the importance of education to Also, keep in mind that board handouts so board members will be rhe future of our society, the local members are community members. able to focus on what you are saying. school board remains one of the most Even if you do not know them person- Never, never, never make an accusa- important ways for citizens to impact ally, think of them as the neighbor tion or charge you cannot substantiate their communities for Christ.

Testjmony from page 1 wanting to affect education policy. "Serving as a local volunteer is so important," NEED MQRE HELP? he says. "There are always committee assignments that people can volunteer for." The CENTERFOR &cMVIINC; ~~ERLCAis an Dwight also has found that it is better to be "inquisitive" racher than "critical" oucreach of Coral Ridge Ministries. Our goal is co connect citizens like you to vical resources so when addressing a school board. "I have found that professionals tend to gec you can reclaim your cornmuniry for Christ. defensive when you question what they are doing." He also says sincere concern For more informarion, contact us: for the students is vital. He recalls one young mother who was quite nervous as Phone: (800) 582-4794 she addressed the board, "but any mistakes she made wece overshadowed by the Fax: (954)351-3325 E-mail: [email protected] sincerity and concern for her child and the school. We took action." JOIN THE TEAM! For just $15/year, you Dwight's service on the school board has once again been rewarded. He now can become a member of the CENTERFOR serves in South Carolina's state legislature, where he continues to address school RECMIMINGAMERICA and have valuable issues as a member of the legislature's education committee. What all started with resources delivered to your door! To join the a volunteer assignment with a local committee has opened doors for Dwight to ream, send your ro: The CENTERFOR impact education policy for his county and his scare. RECWMINGAMERICA. P.O. Box 632, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33302.

0 1997 Coral Ridge Min~stries.This Local Action Tool may be reproduceckn whole or in pari without alteration-for noncommercial uses without prior permission Inform Activate Your Own d Network

A few years back, legislation was 5) creating opporrurii~iesfor prac- work! All yo11 need are three things: a introduced in the U.S. House of tical involvement in issues of the day. nerworlc, a medium and a message. Representatives that threatened to give These goals embody the essencc of Launching your network. Getting the government more control over pri- grass roots political activism. While your network started is as easy as vate and home education in this they may seem lofty, these goals are opening your personal address book. nation. Several Christian and conserva- easier to attain now than ever! Friends and family are a great place to tive groups saw that this bill could YOU CAN DO IT TOO! start. Your nemork may be individuals have a devastating impact and began a in a small Bible study group or a nationwide effort to contact people Like Paul Revere, you can effec- Sunday school class. The network can tively rally citizens co respond at a who would be advcrsely effected. be extended to other groups as well. From national offices, calls were time of political crisis through a Continued on back made to state leaders, who passed phone/fax/e-mail network. information to local offices. Within Such an information network pro- hours, phone chains and fax and e- vides a simple vehicle for making an mail networks wcre activated. immediate impact. And it's the key to The reaction was immediate and winning most political battles-espe- overwhelming. Soon, elected officials cially those that require mobilizing at all levels of government were hear- support at the grass roots level in a ing from constituents voicing their very short time frame. And best of all, a phonclfaxle-mail ~- concern. Phoncs rang off the hook. Fax machines printed out messages. nenvork requires minimal commit- Letters poured in by the thousands. ment by those involved. I'eople can Legislators realized how their con- take part at little or no cost and with- stituents wanted them co vote on this out expending a lot of energy or time. issue and the mcasute was defeated. HOME-BASED ACTMSM "THE BRITS ARE COMING!" Another aspect that makes a net- The concept of the grass roots work so doable is that you never have information network is qot new. to leave your home to make an impact! Think about the early days of the You don't have to ride around the American Revolution. At a crucial neighborhood on a horse like Paul time, Paul Revcre received a message Revere yelling the news in the rniddltr about enemy troops and quickly of the night. With cellular phor~es, passed that information on to neigh- computers and fax machines, it is easi- boring communities. er than ever, and can cost very little, co Paul Revere was part of a commu- gather and disseminate information. nications network. While seemingly But do not chink everything has to primitive by our standards, the goals be "high-tech" to be effective. behind Revere's actions are the same Sometimes simpler is better. goals that encompass a grass roots Often, people get so eriamored information network today: wich the "gadgets" that they forget to 1) informing people about contro- remember the purpose of a ncnvorlc- versial issues in a timely manner; getting the right information to the 2) motivating your friends and right people in a timely manner so -. neighbors to take action; they can lake action. found many pastors asking, 'Can you just send me a fax!"' 3) mobilizing people to respond HOW TO GET STARTED quicldy on critical issues; So, using a modem and her Where should you begin when home computer, Judy learned how 4) unifying independent groups building a grass roots informacjon nec- on issues of common concern; See Testimony an back

LID Finding the right medium. Next, 7) Only the fax leader should dis- munication. What do you wanr ro you need a medium. Since most peo- rribute faxes to the entire network. accomplish? If you are asking people ple have a phone, start there with a 8) Divide your list into two to pray, say so. If you want them to simple relephone chain. The leader groups: direct fax lines and shared rake action-such as write a letrer or starcs t!!e message by calling three or phone lines. Shared phone lines must call a policician-rnake the request four others. They in turn call three or be called prior to sending the fax. clear. And be sure all information four, who call others. WIDENING YOUR CIRCLE (phone numbers or addresses) are dou- FLT machines create excellent citi- ble checked before releasing them on zenship networks (see guidelines If you want to reach beyond your the nerwork. Proper documencation below). If you have access to e-mail, a own circle of friends or organization, assures that your information is accu- similar system can be set up between [here are some simple steps to take. rare and gives credibility to your fax individuals by sending information via Identify like-minded groups. network. the Internet. This has the advantage of Open up the Yellow Pages and begin 2. Keep each news item simple going right to a person's desk rather calling churches and other groups that and direct. Complicated items get gar- than sirting on a fax machine. may share your concerns on issues bled. People will be more likely to Sening guidelines. No matter such as education, crime, right-to-life, immediately relay the message if it which medium (or mediums) you taxes, pornography, homosexuality and only cakes a moment. Simple requests choose, be sure the lines of communi- parental righu. As to speak to the pas- always get a better response. cation are clearly defined. tor or spokesperson. Tell them what 3. If appropriate, lisr a phone 1) Who is responsible for contacr- you are doing, and ask if they would number or address where more infor- ing whom and in what time frame! like to be a parc of the network mation can be obrained. People with a 2) What happens when someone Become a good networker. greater interest in any topic may want can't be contacted? Whenever you are at a gathering, be to do more and by directing them you 3) Who determines what items are quick to identify people who may be further the cause. passed on? interested in your network. Carry a sample of your latest communication. RlEADY, SET, GROW. FAX NETWORK TIPS Swap business cards. And offer to Remember that phonelfaxle-mail Here are some specific tips to help include them in your network. chains are almost organic in their you launch an effective fax network: Other guidelines. As you build nature. How they develop and evolve 1) The leader should have a fau your list, remember these points: is beyond anyone's control. Your net- machine that can store programmable a) Be sure to get correct spellings work will always be changing, so do phone numbers. of any names of' contact people. not be disheartened if there are seasons 2) Interested activists should be b) Clar4 what time of day the where the network loses members. As encouraged to get a fax machine or ser contact is to be made. issues come and go, your network will up fax software on their computer. C) Ask for fax number and e-mail grow accordingly. And like the watch- 3) Program your fax or computer address right away. men posted on wall in biblical times- fax to make fax calls at night, avoiding d) Provide a phone number for and Paul Revere in our own nation's peak business hours and saving you feedback or phoneladdress changes. history-you can play a key role in time sitting in front of a fax machine. FINAL POlNTERS alerting others to critical issues. 4j Fax clear copies, preferably FOR 4 NO matter what form of commu- Contact the CENTER RECWM~NG originals. AMERIC~for more information about 5) Fax on a regular schedule nication your network takes on, it is critical to establish a few guidelines. how to establish n fax, phone or e-mnil (weekly) unless there is an urgent issue. network. Call 1-800-582-4794. 6) Limit fax to two pages. 1. Clarify the goal of each com-

NEED MORE HELP? to fax from her home. That led her to a local pastor who had developed a hx list The CE.NTERFOR RECLNMINGAMERICA is an of nedy 150 churches for a previous Christian rally. "As I organized the phone outreach of Coral Ridge Minisrries. Our goal is chain outreach," says Judy, " we always made it a point to ask for fau numbers if ctr connecc cicizens like you co vical resources so available. In this way we were able to add quite a few." you can reclaim your community for Chrisr. hother lobbyist shared his database and Judy has included Christian schools For more informarion, conracc us: (addressed to the principal) and members of the media. With e-mail coming into Phone: (800) 582-4794 Fax (954) 351-3325 greater use, Judy has compiled e-mail addresses as well. As her fax and phone list E-mail: [email protected] expanded, she established a "chain" of people who forwarded her fax or call to oth- JOIN THE TEAM! For just $15/year, you ers. In churches, she contacts a representative who communicates the issue to oth- can become a member of the CENTERFOR ers in rhe congregation. Judy has found that including specific information-like RECLAIMINGALIERICA and have valuable directions to rallies or parking availabiliry-makes a difference. "I know the first , resources delwered to your door! To join the team, send your to: The CENTERFOR several times I went to the capital, I was very confused," she concludes. "If we can I RECMMING ~~EPJCA,PO. BOX632, overcome the fear, I believe more people will get involved Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33302.

0 1998 Coral Ridge Ministries. This Local Action Tool may be reprodud-in whole or in part without alteration-for non-commercialuses without prior permission Citizens To

"You can't fight city hall." That's 4. Motivate. Talk is nor enough. A accountability. Based on the report, a cornmoll sentiment heard over and successful coalition meeting aIways determinc the next course of action on over in mosr communities. The fact is, results in action. Your coalition meeting that issue. Then move on. many of your friends and neighbors must motivate participants to action. 4. Set New Action Items. Each would like to do something about GETTING STARTED new Action Item presentation should local issues impacting faith and family, include: a) background information; but the problems seem overwhelming. The best way ro get started is to b)specific course of action; c) assign- They're right. You can't fight city just do it! Contact a few friends (two ment of action. Be sure not to move on hall-not on your own. But when you or three will suffice). Share with them to thc next Action hem until the find friends who share your objectives, your desire to talk about issues in you action on the table has been assigned. suddcnly the task isn't so daunting. community and "see, if, cogsther, we Conbnued on back This is the primary purpose of a grass can do anything about it." Then, set roots network, often called a coalition. up a meeting. IT'S that simple. A coalition is a network of people You can give your coalition a 'I. with common goals who meet on a jump stat" by finding a hot issue to regular basis to share information and galvanize around. Talk to your friends. develop plans of action. A coalition Find out what interests them-and can be as small as a handful of friends capitalize on their interest to launch meeting in a home, or as large as sev- your coalition. Don't wait for someone else to get ..- era1 dozen people gathering at a meet- ing hall. The size isn't too important, a coalition started. If you are motivat- especially at the start. What is impor- ed, take the lead! And don't use lack rant is bringing together like-minded of experience as an excuse. With all people around common goals coalition work, willingness is more important than expertise. GOALS OF A COALITION The goals of a coalition are four- GETTING STARTED fold: A coalition meeting musr bc 1. Unite. A coalition,does not rep- focused. If your meeting lacks focus, resent any one group--itseeks to ir will lack direction, and soon you unite citizens ancl group who share will lack participants! A focused meet- common goals. Most likely, concerned ing must have an agenda Be sure to Christians in your communiv have come to your coalition meeting with a little or no idea what other Christians prepared agenda, and stick to it! Here are doing to reclaim your community. is a sample agenda: The coalition seeks to bring these 1. Open with prayer. The Bible groups together. says, "The Most High God is ruler 2. Educate. Sharing information is over the realm of mankind" (Daniel a primary goal of the coalition. Every 5:21, NASB). Start the meeting by coalition meeting should educate par- aclcnowledging God as the ruler over ticipants on key issues tahng place in all, asking His blessing on your com- your community. Your coalition's abili- munity and seeking His pidancc. ty to quickly and effectively cornmuni- 2. Welcome participants. Every cate vital information will, in large participant is imporrant. Make sure part, dewmine your success. you grect and inrroducr those who are 3. Strategize. Coalirion meetings new to your coalirion. now mayors of two area cities. develop and present plans of action to 3. Review Action Items. Ask for They received much of their early accomplish specific goals. We call these repom on Action Items from prior training through coalition Action Items. meetings. Encourage honesry and See Testimony on back 5. Recap. Review assignments future meeting and work with the par- As your coalition grows, you may and offer balance of time for open ticipant to make the Action Item perti- find it necessary to secure a larger discussion. nent, practical, and winnable (i.e. meeting place. Select a facility [hat is 6. Close in prayer. launching a letter campaign to your accessible and comfortable. Libraries, - OTHER PRACTICAL TIPS: governor on an issue). civic halls, and churches often have rooms available for little or no charge. 1. Begin and end on time. This MOTIVATING PARTICIPANTS will show participants char you respect Acrion is the key to a coalition's BUILDING YOUR COALITION their time and will establish a profes- success. That is why it is essential to The best way to expand your sional attitude in your coalition. motivate participants. Here are three coalition is to interact with other Coalition meetings should be hn, but tips on motivation: Christian and social conservative orga- they must also mean business. One to 1. Keep it simple. Don't over- nizations in your area. Ask them about two hours is a good time limit. whelm a participant with a task they key issues they are worlung on. If the 2. Make resources available. Begin cannot handle. Meer them at their issue meets your criteria for an Action ro clip your local newspaper. Bring level of expertise and commitment: A Item, ask them to send a representative magazines of interest. Set up an infor- letter to the editor, phone call, trip to to make a presentation at your next mation table, and ask participants to the library for research. Soon, partici- meeting. bring resources to share with others. pants will be volunteering for more Guest speakers are a good way to TAKING ACTION challenging assignments. gain exposure. Public officials and vis- 2. Reward success. Acknowledge iting celebrities can give your coalition The core of a coalition meeting every completed Action Item, no mat- a higher profile in your community. consists of Action Items. An Action ter how small. Remember: success Ask your local Christian radio station Item gives information and strategies breeds success. to run a pubIic service announcement aimed at a specific course of action. 3. Promote the team. Participants for an upcoming meeting. Ask partici- Action Items must be: should know that the coalition is pants to announce upcoming meetings a) pertinent- make sure the issue depending on them to complete their through their churches. is thoroughly documented and of con- Action Items. Every link in the chain CAN WE BE "PARTISAN"? cern to members of your coalition. is vital. Between meetings, contact b) practical-- the Action Item those who have agreed to take action Be carehl not to allow your coali- must lead to an action members of and see how they are doing. Start a tion to become an"'armV of a political your coalition can take part in. Make phone chain to announce upcoming party. Members of political groups and . Action Items practical by meeting meetings. parties are welcome to participate and participants at their level of ability you can encourage participation in and commitment. AS YOUR COALITION GROWS political events, but your coahtion C) winnable- focus on Action As the organizer of the initial should not become an organizing Items that can result in measurable meeting, you will likely serve as the mreting for "Candidate X." success. If Action Items consistently de-facto chairman. At that meeting result in failure, your coalition will you can offer to serve as chairman or The Bible says, 'Eve ofyou will lose strength. solicit volunteers. The primary respon- chaw a hundred, and a hundred ofyou Action Items must meet all three sibilities of the chairman are to: deter- will chase ten thowdnd" (Leviticus 26:8, criteria in order to be preshted before mine the timetplace of the meeting, NASB). As we work together, our the coalition. If a participant presents set the agenda, and conducc the meet- strength multiplies. This is the key to an Action Item that does not these ing. For the sake of consistency. the conlitions, and the key to reclaiming criteria (i.e. impeaching your chairman should volunteer to serve for our communities fay Christ. governor), "table" the item until a several months. preferably a year.

Testimony from page 1 NEED MORE HELP? meetings. We're constantly training people to move on to deeper levels of involve- The Cenrer for Reclaiming America is here for menr. That's the goal." you! Our goal is to connect concerned citizens Barbara emphasizes the importance of worhng with other Christian organiza- like you to viral resources so you can reclaim tions in building a succcsshl coalition. "It's foolish to be a one-man band. If you your communicy for Chrisc. For addiciond don'r have strength in numbers, nobody is going to listen to you." information contacr us: Barbara continues to head up the issues coalition. Monthly meetings are held Phone: (800)582-4794 Fax: (954) 351-3325 on Saturday at 8 a.m. On average, 40-60 people attend. They even started a E-mail: [email protected] newsletter, "What's New In Broward County," to help keep people informed. JOIN THE TEAIVI! For jusc $15lyear, you To those who are considering forming a coalition in their community, Barbara anbecome a member of che Center for offers this straightforward advice: "You'll do it when you finally say, 'Enough is Reclaiming America and have valuable enough!' 'That's what happened to me. That's why I finally took action." resources delivered ro your door! Send your sift co: The-Cencer for Redaiming America, Because Barbara Collier finally decided co take acrion, South Florida will PO. Box 632,Fr. Lauderdale, FL 33302. never be the same again! lected 0 at Get Res

Napoleon Bonaparte once said, cards or telegrams. While such mass- 1) Ask very specific questions. "There are only two powers in the produced petirions are less effecrive Make ir your goal hr.0 ask questions so world, the sword and the pen; and in than personal correspondence, remem- specific your elected official's sraff can- the end rhe former is always con- ber that most eiecred officials tally not respond with a form letter. Thar quered by the latter." Napoleon's every constituent communication that forces the staff to provide clear answers. axiom is well known. But in today's comes to the office. Getting the arren- 2) Offer a policy option. Don't high-tech world, does it still ring true? tion of elected officials is often a num- just express your disapproval or oppo- The editors of Life magazine rhink bers game. sirion; always list an alternative. Then so. In [he publicarion's September 29, Mosr representatives personally ask rhc represenracive ro address rhe 1997, issue they named the printing of read only a small sampling of the mail implications of your alternare policy. rhc Gutenberg Bible in 1455 as the from constituents. The volume is just Continued on back mosr important event of the last 1,000 roo much. Therefore a system is in years because it ushered in the infor- place tha~responds ro letters. TESTIMONY mation revolurion. The mail goes to a low-ranking TAKE UP YOUR PENS! staff member. He Eigures our your Four Decades Of ... issue, tallies your respons?, and sends The written word has always been back one of several form letters [hat Letters Get Results! a powerful tool, and thanks hr.0 a host addresses your inquiries. If your letter If you are a politician from of constitutionally protected freedoms, is general in nature, you will get a Southern California, most likely [he power of the pen is even more -- generic, printed lerter in return. you have received a letter from potenr in America today. Our narion's Frank Drewe. This Glendale citi- Constitution guarantees "freedom of LET'S GET PERSONAL zen, now retired, has been writing speech, or of the press; or the righhr. of Bruce Rarron, former congression- to elected officials and sending let- the people peaceably ro assemble and al aide, offers some practical rips in his ters to the editor for 40 years! to petition the government for a redress book, Politicsfir the People, to help "I've been a political activist all ofpievances." While freedom of speech concerned citizens get their views my life," he says. "I can remember and press gets lots of arten~ion,the heard in the hallowed halls of our city, my father telling me, shortly after right ro petition the government is also stahr.e, and federal capitals. World 11, about how the a fundamental freedom., How do you get past the standard W~I media was too easy on Stalin." It Since God's providence has grant- response? According to Barron, "A per- was right about then that Frank ed America these freedoms, Christian sonal phone call or, better yet, a con- wrote his first letter to the editor. citizens have a responsibility to exercise cise, individually written letter will Afier all these years, Frank has their rights wisely. That means answer- carry more weight." accumulated file drawers hll of ing rhe call to "take up your pens" (or The key is to write letters that information and research. It has your keyboard) and communicare wirh stand out-1ehr.hr.ers that are different, been from this remarkable database elected officials, or planning a visit ro letters that demand a personal that he has drawn ammunition for speak with a representative- all with- response. Thar kind of letter gets a constant stream of letters (and out fear of reprisal or punishment. noticed and draws attcnrion to your now faxes). cause. Here are a few reasons why: TAKING TWAT FIRST STEP "I'm on everybody's fax list 1) A personal letter shows that you and they are on mine," he states. It can seem intimidating at first to care about [he issue. That translates into about 10-15 contact elected officials, but there are 2) A personal le~terdemonsrrates faxes a day coming in and many many ways available for citizens ro let that you ac[ independently. hundreds going out. Some months their voice be heard. 3) A personal lerter says you are his phone bill is close to $200! For exanlple, grass roots organiza- willing ro invest rime to gehr. an answer. tions ofien conduct mass media cam- With his automatic fax paigns designed to rally their con- INCREASING YOUR IMPACT machine all programmed, Frank scltuents to action. These campaigns Here are a few tips to help your said, "I just touch a couple or often take the form of petirions, post- letter make an even greater impact-. See Testimony on back

LiG 5) Know the legislative process. If all men are made in rhe image of God, Buc you can show your seriousness you are vague about whar they are but dso thar we should "be in subjec- and professior~alatritude by being Joing, [hey can be vague in answering tion 10 [he governing aurhorities. For there on rime. Of course, be flexible if you. But if you ask your legislator to [here is no authority rxcepr from God, interruptions do occur. By being on take specific action, he can'r dodge and chose which exist are established time, you can bc rsady to meer when your questions so easily. bv God" (Romans 13:l). the opporrunicy is open. 4) Keep up the dialogue. If you 3) .Address only one issue. Avoid Like the Bov Scout handbook yet a response you don't like, call the rhe temptation of using a "shotgun" states-be prepared! Have your infor- congressman's district or federal office approach with a letter [hat tackles 311 mation and marerials ready to support and politely bu~firmly ask for a com- your hot-button issues. Instead, stay your posirion. Have copies ready for plete answer. focused on one iasuc with the official or his or her staff If they This approach means you must each letter. are not aware of the details, your infor- "know your stuf? on the issue. You 4) Keep your letter to one page. marion may help them understand musr be able to present it well and This is very important. .A one-page let- your posirion. also be able to discern the elected ter speaks volumes to your ability to Be ~olitical.Since elected officials official's response. concisely and professionally communi- first and forcmosr wan[ ro represent cate your point. If you need help keep- their constiruents in their district or WOULD YOU HELP ME? ing pur lettcr to one page, ask a srate, show how your issue connects Another way of gaining a better friend to edit it. with them. Show how you can assist in audience to express your views is to get communicating this information to his to know the staff member responsible PLEASE SIT DOWN! constituents. For articulating [he policy position for Of course, berter than a letrer or Be responsive. Answer any and all the elected official. Barron nores, phone call to your elected official's questions--and always be candid with "This apploach is especially usehl if office, you may wanr to make a per- your responses. Elected officials rake you expect to communicate frequently sonal visit. Every effort is made by [he ~criou'slvwhat their constituents say. on bills within a specific legislative congressional staff to schedule meer- Remember, ro your elected official you area, such as education." ings with constituents. That is a very represent the views of hundreds or per- Though they have busy schedules, effective way for you to convey a rnes- haps thousands of people. Bur always they ofren will be able to take the time sage about spe~ificlegislation. speak your mind, not the opinion of to help you understand where a con- To make the most of your person- "John Q. Public." gressman stands on the issue in ques- al visit with your elected official, here Follow up-. your meeting- with a [ion. Plus, they may help you find per- are some suggestions: "thank you" letter. It is also appropri- suasive arguments. Plan your visit carefully. Be clear ate to summarize the meeting and its about your objectives. Know who you main poinrs. Include with your lerter PRACTICAL TIPS FOR are going to meet with. EFFECTIVE LETTERS anv additional information your elect- Make an appointment with the ed official may have requested. 1) State your purpose right up person in charge of the ofice schedule. Communicating with elected offi- front. Stare it in the first paragraph of This will help you get In touch with cials is an imoottant civic duty that the letrer. If your letter pertains co a the righr person so your issues are can result in real changes char impact specific piece of lcgislati?n, identify it dealt with appropriately. your cornmunicy. So get started roday! appropriarely. (House bin -- H.R. Be prompt and patient. It is nor I Senare bill -- S. -) uncommon, due to last-minute 2) Always be courteous. The changes in schedule, for a legislator to Bible teUs us to respect others because be late or have a meering interrupred.

Testimony lrom page I NEED MORE HELP? three buttons, and 1 can send a letrer to just about anyone or any group." That The CE~ERFOR RECLVMING P&ERIO. is an can be elected officials, newspaper and magazine edirors, Christian leaders, politi- ourreach of Coral Ridge Miniscr~es.Our god is cal organizations, or individuals. co connecc cicizens like you to vical resources so Has he seen any fruit from his labors? "I was real active in fighting against the you can reclaim your communiy for Christ. 18 bills recently introduced by the California legislature plorrivcing homosexual For more infurmacion, contact ws: Phone: (800) 582-4794 rishrs," Frank says. "We really concentrated on that. We defeated all of rhem." Fax: (954) 3 5 1-3325 Does he [hir~ksome see him as a conservative wacko? "I get feedback, every E-mail: [email protected] once in awhile from someone who is angry," he states. "Bur ir is nor very often. JOIN THE TW!For jusc $1jlyear, yuu As often as I write, I don't get much. Most people love what I say and that helps can become a member of the CENTERFOR keep the fire going." RECIAIMLNGAVEKICA and have valuable resources delivered to your door! To join rhe What does he think is the best piece of advice for someone writing a letter to ream, send your gifc ro: The CLN-IEKFOR - a politician or an editor! "Try ro keep the letters as short as you can," he con- RECLAIMING AMERICA, P.O. BOX632. cludes. "I cry to keep rhem down m one page." Fr. Lauderdale, FL 33302.

0 1998 Coral Ridge Ministries. This Local Action Tool may be reproduced4 whole or in part without alleratiodor noncommercial uses without prior permission. Citizenship & Your Church Help Your Church Promote Christian Citizenship And Influence Our Societv

Imagine the following scenario. It's ARE THERE GUIDELINES? STARTING A COMMUNITY an election vear and rwo candidates for Okay, Christians can ~articipate IMPACT COMMITTEE an irn~ortantlocal office are neck-and- in public debate. But what about a One good way to inform and neck in the polls. You are a member of pastor! How about political activity in motivate church members for citizen the larast church in town. On the a church building! Isn't that off limits? involvement is through a community sunday before election day your pas- And on a Sunday! In church? These impact committee. The committee is tor's sermon topic is "The Chrisuan's are questions worth asking. And things structured as an outreach of [he Dury To Vote." And in the bulletin like these should bc discussed by church and is strictly non-partisan in there are three newspaper articles dis- churches so that members are clear nature. To get started, plan a meeting cussing each candidate and their stance about what is legal and illegal. with a half dozen Continued on back on several issues. Then, at the end of the sermon the Dastor announces that SURPRISING ANSWERS on Monday evening a debate between In the scenario at the beginning of TESTIMONY both candidates will be held at the this Local Action Tool, it may surprise church with the Dastor as moderator. you to discover that: Chriitian Activist Everyone is buzzing after church. 1) Preaching about citizenship is You hear people talking about the sep- completely allowed. In fact, in [he Spins Charlotte's Web aration of church and state. Is all of first century of our nation's history. Ten yeaa ago, when the chair- this legal? such sermons were common, almost man of his church's "community expected, and frequently for impact ministry" stepped down, THE ANSWER IS ... further public debate and discussion. the responsibility fell to Carson The answer is that a lot of It may offend some, but that is some- Daves. Not only is Daves still the Christians are confused about this thing he pastor will have to deal with chairman, he also chairs a citywide issue. The general understanding is on a case-by-case basis. network of church impact corn- [ha[ Christians should keep their noses 2) Having newspaper articles in mittees, each working to coordi- out of political affairs. Some say reli- the church bulIetin is also completely nate their effons to make a bigger gion and politics don't mix. legal. A few limirations apply, but for impact on Charlotte, N.C. While such issues can be divisive, the most part, the only problem, That the Lord has allowed and therefore should be handled with again, will be dealing with members me to be a part of is having others great caution by church leadership, it who are offended. catl me andask how to gectheir must be established that citizenship is 3) There are also no legal prob- church involved," he says. not anti-Christian. Chiistian citizens lems with having a debate between Ten churches with a combined have rights und re~~onsihilitiesto ful- political candidates in the church. membership of 20,000 are active fill. If we are to be "salt and light" Candidates can even Appear at thc in rhe network, which began when (Matthew 5:18-20) then we must do Sunday worship service. However, a "Focus on the Family" seminar all we can to promote good and right- there are important qual~fiers,such as held in Charlotte (designed to help eous laws and help godly people get making sure candidates do not con- believers become more active on inro office. duct campaign activities-like raising social issues) attracted an esrimated Knowing that, care must be taken money or dlstrlbuting I~terature. 1,500 people. From that, the not to taint the Gospel for the sake of MAKING A DIFFERENCE informal network was launched. political gain. For example, while on "We meet once a month," bays In addition to defining which some issues, like abortion, the biblical Daves, "and we share what is going political ac~ivityis legal and illegal in position is clear on others the lines on, what issues are arising." Daves church, it is essential to outline ways are not so black and white. Here, takes no credit lor the city-wide Christians can aglec ro disagree and be in which Christians can organize rheir network. "1 may be [he chairman," efforts to wrestle with social iss~~es. willing- to exercise Christlike charity he says, "but the only way this Thrre needs to be 3 plarform for toward one another wirhour trying m coalition works is, anyone who ''pull rank" and establish a "Christian believers to understand the issues in position." their own communiry. See Testimony on back LiF

Bottom Lines

Our salvation is in Jesus Christ, not our nation, leaders or laws True, lasting change with eternal value comes on& through cltangecl h earts Cliristian Citizenship (aspresented here) is not the priority in I@, but it's not be to ignored through benign neglect lnvolvement in the affairs of this nation can signijicantly reduce the destructive onslaught of government and society on Christianity Restoring God's standards (& godly people) to theyublic arena can hring godly change, and conviction of sin We're not to become overwlzelmetl, we know tlze future is in God's hands; we're only called to be faitltjiil in exercising our citizenship duties and privileges Whatever we do, it must be for tlze glory of Christ!

Notes: Suggested Next Steps (Individual Actions) Near Term:

Register to p& and become knowledgeable on the upcoming election Identify a candidate for office (preferably a qualified Christian) and support their campaign o Use available voter guides with prudence Form an ad hoc group to begin planning activities and actions to take o See Reclaiming America "Local Action Tools" o Look over previous seminar lists for ideas to pursue o Consider the HBI projects at end of binder o Identlfy particular "hot button" issues to address more methodically Become knowledgeable on societal, local & national issues by using available books, web sites and signing up for several Christian issues newsletter lists o See listings provided in binder subscribe to several legislative alert notifications (e-mail or snail-mail) fiom Christian sources o Family Research Council (wm.frc.org) o Traditional Values Coalition (-g) o Pacific Justice Institute (www.pacificj~~sticeorp) o Concerned Women for America (m.cwfa. 01-g) Mid Term:

Talk to church leadership about formal establishment of a Christian Citizenship Group Write letters to the Editor on a routine basis expressing your views o See guidelines and contact jnfannation provided in binder Become familiar with the Declaration of Inde~endenceand United States Constitution as well as the history of their writing o See Wallbuilders materials - videos and books (mv.wallbuilders.oi-g) Write andlor call le&lators expressing your views on pending legislation Attend andparticivate in school board meetings Investigate your child's school cum'culum and teaching programs o Obtain student "Opt-Out Forms'' to use if necessary (Pacific Justice Institute) o For Home Schoolers, join Home School Legal Defense Association (www hsldam) Far Term:

Consider participating in the elective or le~islntiveprocess personally or in support of others Suggested Next Steps (Ch urch Actions)

Near Term:

Identify a single church P.O.C. to coordinate and focus efforts Ensure church leadership oversight of all Group activities Host an Election Pre-View Evening to equip Christians to vote responsiblv Form a Christian Citizenship Group to begin coordinated actions Establish a Group policv, & reasoned (focused) goals and objectives Mid Term:

Post legidative alerts (as appropriate) on a church bulletin board and distribute in bulletins and/or electronically Subscribe to several legislative alert notifications (e-mail or snail-mail) from Christian sources Obtain solid resource material on societal, local and national issues Establish a Christian Citizenship libraw for greater access, use & research Define ways to communicate activities & actions to a larger audience Identify other churcheslministries in the area to collaborate with Far Term:

Establish a budget line for activities Identify men and women to mentor for public leadership Establish routine seminars on specific topics to equip members Horizon Bible Institute Additional Projects for College Credit (1 Unit)

To earn one College Credit as follow-on to attending this Seminar, select one of the topics listed below and invest a minimum of I I hours. This project can be accomplished individually or as a small group. To complete the project, each student must write a 5 page paper on their experience.

At a minirn~111,for a selected project consider answering the following questions (not necessarily in this order):

What is the objective? Why did you select this area? What Biblical principles apply? What information do you need to gather? What additional resources d you need? What legal issues may be involved? How are you going to organize? Who should you confer with? What specific actions are you going to take? What time heare you going to follow? What precautions should you be aware of? What consequences could result - both good and bad? How are you going to measure your success? What lessons learned did you have? How can you make your efforts available for others to use or build upon?

Project #1: Organize a Voter Registration Drive Organize a "get out the vote" campaign for your church, family or fiends. Implement it between now and the November election. Consider voter registration, absentee ballets, timing etc. Actually conduct this campaign.

Project #2: Shock Radio A radio talk show is sexually explicit, uses vulgar language, encourages offensive behavior and the like. How would you go about removing this program from the airwaves? Project #3: Pornography Pornographic magazines and clubs are everywhere. How would you go about reducing or eliminating their availability? Consider the role of government, existing laws, factual information, etc.

Project #4: Movies and Television Shows Many movies and TV shows contain graphic violence, explicit sexual content, disgusting behavior andlor inappropriate language. How would you go about convincing producers to offer more acceptable offerings or versions?

Project #5: Homosexuality The homo sexual agenda is being taught in many schools. Children are being taught that homosexuality is morally no different than heterosexuality. How would you go about changing what children are taught in our schools?

Project #6: Candidate Qualifications Listening to the radio or TV, or reading mail, will not hlly inform us of the real qualifications for a candidate for public office. Using the material presented in this Seminar, select a current candidate and try to answer whether they meet the Biblical qualifications indicated. Consider using the various information collection techniques described.

Project #7: Election Pre-View Evening Organize an Election Pre-View Evening at church to address the various State Propositions as well as local city ballot measures fiom a Biblical perspective. Consider how to work with church leadership, how to present information in the most effective way and how to involve the audience. Actually conduct this event.